Potential victims of “callous” doorstep scammers are being armed with vital knowledge on how to protect themselves.
Police are aiming to thwart bogus callers and rogue traders as part of the nationwide Operation Monarda.
Officers have been running road shows in Aberdeen to offer advice, and this week will be speaking to staff at shops, banks and building societies to share tips on how to spot vulnerable customers who may be at risk.
To beat scammers, police advise to keep back and front doors locked at all times and be on guard if someone turns up unexpectedly.
They also advise to always ask for ID, never let people persuade you to let them into your home, never pay for goods or give money to strangers who arrive at your address and never keep large amounts of money at your property.
Inspector Colin Taylor said: “Doorstep crime is typically aimed at vulnerable members of the community such as the elderly and is completely callous and unacceptable.
“Local officers have been running a series of road shows to highlight doorstep crime and over the course of the last week and this week officers have been visiting premises including sheltered housing complexes, DIY stores in Elgin, Peterhead and Garthdee, and builders merchants across the division where rogue traders often source the materials to carry out their work.
“During the road shows they have been looking to speak to members of these communities about protecting themselves from doorstep crime and handing out leaflets of guidance.”
A radio campaign has also been launched, and officers will be offering guidance to post offices, banks and building societies about being alert to customers making unusual withdrawals.
Insp Taylor also urged friends, family and carers to watch out for their vulnerable loved ones, and make them aware of the risks.
