In light of recent security and theft concerns off-campus, which involved suspects posing as utility workers to gain entry to student residences, the Department of Public Safety has compiled this list of steps you can take to protect yourself and your property:
Stop and think: Are you expecting anyone to come to your home? Call your landlord and ask if they arranged for service. Never open your door without looking out a peephole or window to check who’s there.
- If your door has a chain, put it on before answering your door. It will create a barrier between you and the visitor.
- Don’t assume that the person is legitimate just because they’re wearing a uniform.
- Do not allow someone in your home who claims to be from a utility company unless you have called the company and confirmed that they sent an employee to your residence. (Make this phone call with the visitor waiting outside, behind a locked door.)
- Never open the door without asking for proper identification first.
- If something seems strange, shut the door, lock it, and call the utility company or your land lord for verification or call 911.
- If you think the person is an imposter, call 911 immediately.