The Vernon Hills Police Department warns us that summer is the season for contractor scams. Be suspicious of anyone who shows up at your door without an appointment and offers to seal your driveway, check your roof, clean your gutters, trim your trees, or do any other type of work. Often these solicitors will say they are working in your neighborhood, so if you hurry and decide today they will give you a "great deal." Don't believe them.
Don't leave your house to talk with anyone you don't know, either. Sometimes these folks pull you out of the front door so a partner in crime can come into the back. Be careful. Don't fall for it.
Other ruse burglaries might include somebody pretending to be from a utility company needing to check your services, or requesting you to come outside to look at your meter, or some sort of similar discussion designed to keep you busy. Remember, utility companies, the Village, and any other reputable organization will carry valid ID, and usually are in clearly marked vehicles.
- Do your homework. Check credentials and IDs. Get agreements in writing. Check references.
- You never need to answer your door for anyone. You should never step outside for somebody you don't know.
- While we are at it, you do not need to answer your phone or engage with callers. Bad actors can "spoof" the system so that your Caller ID shows something legitimate, such as the Sheriff's Department – but don't believe it. Don't provide personal information. In fact, always be ready to hang up and call for assistance.
- Always feel comfortable calling 911.
- Learn more by checking the VHPD webpages, including their Ruse Burglary information sheet and the Fraud Alert provided by the Illinois Attorney General's Office.