Palatine Warns of Door-to-Door Scams

A number of different ruses have been used by scammers who are attempting to gain entry into Palatine homes.  

They have included requests to check the water heater/pipes/water quality, people who discuss debts they say homeowners owe and trimming trees. Property line questions and people posing as nurses asking to take blood pressure also have occurred fraudulently, according to the Palatine Summer 2012 newsletter. 

Unsuspecting victims have let these people into their homes, the newsletter states, and keep victims distracted while another person enters the home to burglarize it. 

Tips provided by Palatine Police and the Village of Palatine include:

• If someone you don't recognize is entering your house or a neighbor's house, or you see unfamiliar vehicles in your neighborhood, call 9-1-1. 
• Even if you are outside gardening, keep all doors locked at all times.
• Don't let people who ask to use your phone into your home-tell them you will call the police for them. 
• If someone comes to your house and states they are a nurse, do not give your personal information to them or let them take your blood pressure. 
• Do not keep large amounts of cash, important documents or jewelry in your home, instead utilize safety deposit boxes.