Residents warned over bogus census workers

RESIDENTS in Carmarthenshire are being urged to be on their guard against bogus census workers who may try to falsely obtain personal details.

Official census workers will be out and about visiting householders who have not filled in their forms.

The Carmarthenshire Community Safety Partnership, which includes the council and the police, is warning residents not to allow unauthorised people into their homes.

Official census workers will always show their 2011 census photo identity card and they will not ask for any personal details such as bank account numbers, national insurance details, or credit card numbers.

Any suspicious visitors should be reported to police.

Councillor Pam Palmer, the council’s executive board member for public protection, said: “Generally, the only time people will receive a personal visit from census staff is where they have failed to return the questionnaire. Even then, they will have a clear role to assist and advise and should not be asking for any personal details.

“Anyone who is unsure about a census official should either contact the census helpline or the police.”

Trading standards and police forces across Wales have teamed up to produce a one-page Factsheet which clearly explains what collectors will and will not do.

Police say that although there have been no cases of this kind in Carmarthenshire to date; there have been instances of other types of bogus officials operating in the county.

Community Safety Inspector Tony Ward said: “We don’t want to alarm people, but it is important to recognise that there are doorstep crime opportunists out there who will take advantage of any misconceptions on the part of the public.

“We are urging people to only answer the questions in the census form. They should not disclose credit card or bank details and not pay any money to anyone claiming to be from the census. Remember if you are not sure, don’t open the door.”

For a copy of the factsheet visit www.tradingstandardswales.org.uk or call Carmarthenshire Direct on 01267 234567.

If you’re unsure about a caller, ring the census helpline on 0300 0201 101. To report any suspicious behaviour call 101.