Birchington and Minster residents told to be on their guard against scammers
15:39, 06 March 2017
Residents are being warned against scammers who are claiming to be deaf and selling drawings.
Police had a number of calls from people in Birchington and Minster on Saturday saying the cold callers were approaching older or vulnerable people.
It is thought the man and woman have a sign with them saying they are deaf and that they are trying to sell a hand-drawn picture.
Victims are asked to pay around £10 to £15 for the picture and it is only later when the image is revealed to be a photocopy.
Inspector Lara Connor from the Thanet Community Safety Unit said: "Although no crimes were reported in this instance, we would always urge people to be vigilant and to always check the identity of anyone knocking at their door.
"Ensure you keep your front and back doors locked, even while you are at home, always use a door chain and don't let any strangers into your house.
"If you feel threatened by a caller, call the police. And if you have any doubt about who is at your door, don't answer it."
Similar scams have been reported in Yorkshire, Lancashire, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire.
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