What is A DOORSTEP SCAM?

Someone knocks on your door that you weren’t expecting, claiming that there’s a problem with your roof or driveway that needs to be fixed without delay.

They offer to fix it and might ask for a payment up front or quote you an inflated price. They often inflate the price after the work has been carried out, claiming there were additional problems or you misunderstood the original price. They might also convince you to withdraw cash while they complete the work.

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM A DOORSTEP SCAM

1. Never disclose your PIN or let anyone persuade you to hand over your bank card, financial information or withdraw cash.
2. Only let someone in if you’re expecting them or they’re a trusted friend, family member or professional. Don’t feel embarrassed about turning someone away.
3. They will try to pressure or panic you into accepting their services. Take your time to think about the offer, even if you think it’s genuine. It’s always ok to say ‘no’ and refuse their requests.
4. Check their credentials – a genuine person won’t mind. You can phone the company they represent or check online, but never use contact details the person at your door gives you.
5. Call 999 if you feel threatened or in danger. Call the police non-emergency number 101 if you’re not in immediate danger but want to report an incident

Example of a doorstep scam

Having just celebrated his 80^th birthday alone in his house the previous day, Rod* received a knock on the door from a man wearing safety clothing claiming to be a local roofer. The roofer was driving by when he noticed that a few of the tiles on Rod’s roof looked dislodged, and that the risk of his roof leaking was very high.  He put up a ladder in order to take a closer look and confirmed his concerns but advised Rod that he could do the work for him for £4,800.  He’d need the payment prior to starting the work but was happy to start getting everything ready while Rod went to the bank to withdraw the cash. Panicked and worried, Rod walked to the bank immediately to withdraw the £4,800. The roofer told Rod to tell bank staff the money was for his son if asked in order to avoid any delays. Staff at the bank were concerned – this was an out of character transaction for Rod. They asked further questions, but Rod was adamant that the money was for his son – not to repair his roof. They decided to implement a Banking Protocol in order for the police to speak to Rod and it was at this point ascertained that the money was indeed for work being undertaken on his roof.  Rod’s money was saved!

*Case studies are based on insights from partners

If think you might have been scammed, contact your bank immediately. You can also report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk. If you are in Scotland, please report to Police Scotland directly by calling 101.