Criminals intent on stealing from homes and offices are attempting to gain entry into premises by posing as Telkom technicians, the telecommunications operator warned on Wednesday.

The evolving modus operandi of criminals is of “great concern”, managing executive Jacqui O’ Sullivan said in a statement.

“Telkom would like to alert customers to be on the lookout for these suspects who claim to be Telkom technicians. Upon entry, they steal laptops, cellphones, money and other valuables,” said O’ Sullivan.

She said the perpetrators arrive unannounced and claim that they need to upgrade telephone or Internet lines.

“While bogus technicians targeted other areas in the past, the most recent incidents have been reported in the Eldoraigne, Centurion area,” Telkom said.

“The company is also aware of incidents in KwaZulu-Natal; particularly in the Pietermaritzburg suburbs of Montrose, Chase Valley, Oak Park and Hayfields, and the in the Western Cape in Parow.”

Telkom’s assets and revenue protection services division is working closely with the police in investigating these crimes, the company said.

“As a good corporate citizen, Telkom would like the public to become aware of these incidents. We would also like to educate the public about basic precautionary measures that could be taken so that they do not become victims of these alleged criminals,” said O’ Sullivan.

“Residents must demand to see the identity cards of Telkom technicians and must also ask technicians to quote the relevant reference number that has been assigned to the customer for a fault repair or new installation before allowing them onto their premises. People who have not requested any service from Telkom should be particularly wary,” he added.

“These basic precautions must be communicated to every person who is likely to be at home during the day, including domestic employees.”