Distraction burglars are mainly targeting elderly women

Bogus callers often pose as officials from utility companies or local councils as a cover for thefts, the Home Office claims.

The 'Lock, Stop, Chain and Check' campaign, backed by celebrities and Age Concern, urges people to follow simple steps to ensure doorstep safety.

More than 18,000 distraction burglaries were reported last year.

Vulnerable

But police believe the true figure could be higher due to victims feeling too embarrassed, ashamed or frightened to report the crime.

Assistant chief constable Graeme Gerrard, of the Association of Chief Police Officers, says: "Distraction burglary is a particularly disturbing crime as offenders target the most vulnerable within our communities.

STEPS TO BEAT BOGUS CALLERS Always keep back and front doors locked, even when at home Ensure back door is locked when answering front door Use a door bar or chain when opening door and keep it on while talking to the person Ask for ID if stranger says they are from utility company or local authority

"We urge the public to take these simple measures and to always report this crime or anyone they suspect is a bogus caller operating in their neighbourhood."

The majority of distraction burglaries are carried out by trick rather than forced or sneaked entry with 77% of victims female, figures show.

The Home Office, which set up a taskforce to combat the crime four years ago, is advising people to lock their front and back doors even when they are at home, use a door bar or chain and check for ID if an official wants to come in.