Homeowners are being warned about a security company offering burglar alarms at a price that seems too good to be true.

A company has been cold-calling residents in the north Essex area offering a £5,000 system discounted to £1,500.

In some cases the company has also purported to be working with the police.

Mick Armstrong, Essex Police Crime Reduction Officer, said: “The truth is £1,500 is still extremely expensive. Many local companies install good, effective systems for a fraction of this price.

“Intruder alarms are a big investment so you want one that meets your needs and lifestyle. Don’t be hurried into buying the wrong product.”

Essex Police do not endorse private security companies, nor do they instruct them to contact residents on their behalf.

Contact your local crime reduction officer on 101 for free, impartial advice on home security.