A WARNING has been issued over conmen in the area pretending to offer the installation of free burglary alarms to residents.
Epping Forest Safer Communities Partnership has issued the advice after reports that a new scam is operating in the region involving a fake security company cold calling residents and offering the device.
The conmen, who claim their organisation is linked to Crimestoppers and the Home Office, are said to pressure householders, usually the elderly, into handing over thousands of pounds in return for a "security contract" once they have gained entry to a home.
Residents are being advised never to agree to unannounced security surveys.
A council spokeswoman said: "Anyone considering installing an alarm system in their home can contact the Epping Forest Safer Communities Partnership by email to safercommunities@eppingforestdc.gov.uk or by telephone on 01992 564608.
"They will then be put in touch with reputable local security companies."
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