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Doorstep scams

Fraudsters can target you when you’re at home. Learn what to look out for.

 

How doorstep scams work

Fraudsters may knock on your door and pretend to be on official business or offer to do some work. They might say they’re from a charity or want to sell you something.

You don’t ever have to let someone you don’t know into your home.

Common doorstep scams

Fake police officers or bank staff

These fraudsters might knock at your door and claim they need to see your bank details, PIN or bank card because of a problem. They could also be claiming to be a courier looking to collect your card, cash and even jewellery. A real police officer or bank worker would never do this.

A genuine professional will always carry proof of identity. They won’t mind waiting while you call their company or police station to check. Always use a number from a bill or official website. Not one they give you.

Rogue tradespeople

Someone might knock at your door to tell you they’ve noticed a structural problem with your home that they know how to fix. The job will cost more than it should and probably doesn’t need doing at all.

Before you agree to any work, ask your family or friends for advice to make sure it needs doing. They can also help you to check if a person or company is genuine or not. Always get more than one quote – three is ideal, before agreeing for work to start.

Fake charity workers

Some criminals pose as charity workers. If someone says they’re collecting for a charity and seems pushy or can’t tell you their Registered Charity Number, they could be a fraudster. 

Find information on registered charities

Door-to-door sellers

One tactic a fraudster may use is to rush you into buying something. They might say there is limited stock or a short amount of time to get a discount.

Some fraudsters may keep you busy at the front door while someone else tries to sneak in at the back. Make sure doors and windows are locked when you’re not using them.

Meter readers with no ID

Sometimes fraudsters pretend to be from your gas, electricity, or water provider. They’ll use this excuse to get into your home, then pressure you into giving them money for a reason that isn’t real.

Fraudsters may put you under pressure to let them inside. If someone makes you feel like this, stay calm and ask them to leave. If they won’t, lock your door and call 999.

Learn about other scams and how to protect yourself

Scam calls

Find out how fraudsters can use your details to win your trust.

Avoid scam calls

Scam emails and texts

Fraudsters use scam emails and texts to steal your details.

Avoid scam messages

Pension scams

Fraudsters can target your pension by pretending to be someone you trust.

Protect your pension

Investment scams

Fraudsters may pretend to be a genuine company or adviser.

Avoid investment scams

Protect your identity

Fraudsters want to steal your personal and banking details.

How to keep your identity safe

Protect your devices

Do you know how to keep your devices safe?

Learn about device safety

Learn about the latest scams

Fraudsters are always looking for new ways to try to steal your details and money. Discover which scams are common right now.

Go to latest scams

Have you been targeted by fraudsters?

Contact us right away if you think you've been scammed. We can then guide you on what to do next.

Contact us now

Stay scam safe

Find out how to spot and avoid scams, and how to report fraud.

Protect yourself from fraud

Stay scam safe

Find out how to spot and avoid scams, and how to report fraud.

Protect yourself from fraud