New Forest residents are being informed of a three month survey currently under way in the district on behalf of the Office for National Statistics.
New Forest District Council can assure people that the survey is genuine, being carried out in preparation for next year's Census.
Officers employed by Capita, on behalf of the government's Office for National Statistics, will be in the area for the next few months to check the accuracy of addresses.
On some occasions, the officers may wish to speak to the occupier to ask how many Census forms will be needed for next year.
Each officer will carry an identity card they can show on demand and at no point will they ask to come into the property.
If a person does ask to enter a property, the homeowner is advised not to let them in, close the door and call the police if they are concerned.
New Forest District Council leader Barry Rickman said:
"This is a genuine survey being run by the Office for National Statistics ahead of the Census, to be held in March next year.
"Some people may be suspicious if they see a number of people in their area carrying out a survey. Anyone who is approached by an officer can ask for ID as they will all carry an identity card. We hope all our residents will co-operate with the officers in preparing for the Census."
Further information can be obtained by calling the Office for National Statistics on 0845 601 3034.
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