Police warn that door-to-door inquiries may be part of burglary scam

OAKLAND, Calif. -- Oakland police warned residents Friday to be cautious of people going door to door asking about resident's alarm systems, as they do not appear to be working for the city and could be casing homes for burglaries.

A community member reported that a man wearing an orange safety vest and a tag reading "Oakland Public Safety" knocked on her door Thursday night, according to police.

The man inquired about how up to date the resident's alarm system was, and asked whether or not it was monitored and whether it was tied to a cell phone or landline, the resident told police.

Police are not aware of any city-sponsored program making this sort of inquiry, and think it is likely that the questions were aimed at gathering information for criminal use, officials said.

Residents should not answer any questions about home alarm systems, and should report anyone asking similar questions to police immediately.

Non-emergency calls can be made to (510) 777-3333, or dial 911 for emergencies.

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