Police in Sutton have issued a warning after reports have emerged of residents being allegedly harassed by an “aggressive” door-to-door salesman.

Officers have urged people who feel pressured by someone selling them goods, or if their legitimacy is in doubt, to not let them into their home.

There are several ways door-to-door frauds can occur - such as the pressure of selling unfair contracts, overpriced or substandard home maintenance or improvements, and bogus costumer surveys.

Sutton police issued the warning on its Facebook page today (December 18).

It reads: “Police have received recent reports of residents being harassed by [an] aggressive door-to-door salesman in Sutton.

“If you feel pressured by someone selling you goods, or are in any doubt about the legitimacy of a vendor who is knocking at your door, do not let them in.

“Such frauds involve promoting goods or services that are either never delivered to you or are of a very poor quality.

“Fraudsters may also bill you for work that you didn’t agree to.

“Bogus salespeople will provide false identity or contact information, making it impossible for you to identify or contact them. If you’ve paid them in advance, you won’t get your money back.

“Even if your bank or insurance policy covers any loss, you’ll still have to contend with a damaged credit rating, continued correspondence over a prolonged period of time to repair the damage, and the emotional distress and anxiety identity theft can cause.

“Also, be wary of opening your door to a potential burglar or someone who wants to get inside your property to enable other people to break in.

“Once they get through your door, fraudulent salespeople can take note of your valuables and any security measures you have in place.”

Residents are urged to report bogus salespeople to Action Fraud, Citizens Advice on 03454 04 05 06, or Trading Standards here.