Impersonators posing as repairmen, security or even police officers are a reality and Fidelity ADT warned the public to be cautious.
“Certain individuals will always try to take advantage. Having a cautious approach is always good and can help you avoid becoming a victim. Impersonators are fond of creating fictional characters from the services sector and using it for their purposes. This gives them access to your home by claiming to fix or check your alarm system, Wi-Fi network or water leaks on your property,” explained Charnel Hattingh, National Marketing and Communications manager for Fidelity ADT.
She recommended that employees on the property should be briefed on any expected deliveries or appointments.
In the case of verifying security officers and technicians, Hattingh suggested the following tips.
“Fidelity ADT Armed Response Officers will for example carry a branded ID card with their name, Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) number and a photograph. They also carry a PSIRA card which has their photograph.” She added technicians are also identifiable and will make prior appointments before arriving.
She warned, however, that if any individual requesting access cannot provide a legitimate reason for visiting your property and authentic credentials, they should not be allowed to enter.
“Ensure employees are equipped to handle themselves and the safety of anyone else on the property. A home security system is more than just an alarm system and strategically placed safety apparatus. How individuals respond in the face of imminent danger is essential,” said Hattingh.
She added that while everyone needs to know how to arm the alarm system, not everyone needs to know how to disarm it.
“Young children and new employees don’t necessarily need to know all the passwords. Ideally, employees should be given their own passwords which makes keeping track of events much easier (especially if something goes wrong),” said Hattingh.
Hattingh recommended the following checklist:
• Does everyone who reside and regularly work on your property know how to activate the alarm in the case of an emergency?
• Does everyone know the numbers of the essential emergency services, the police and your security provider?
• Have they been briefed on the correct protocol before allowing the relevant individuals on to the property?
