A doorstep scam is when someone comes to your door and tries to trick you into paying for work you don’t need. They might claim there’s a problem with your house that needs to be fixed immediately, such as your roof or driveway. They might ask for an up-front payment or offer you a cheap price that they then increase.
Doorstep scammers aren’t always pushy and forceful — they may even seem polite or friendly, but that doesn’t always mean you can trust them.
How to protect yourself
Only let someone if you’re expecting them or if you know them well. Remember you can turn someone away
If they try to rush or pressure you into accepting their services, you can say no and refuse their services or say you need to take some time to think about it
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
If you feel threatened or in danger, call the police on 999. If you’re not in immediate danger, you can the non-emergency police number on 101 to report the incident
A-Z of scams
Take Five to Stop Fraud
Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police. They spend hours researching you for their scams, hoping you’ll let your guard down for just a moment. Stop and think. It could protect you and your money.
STOP
Take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information. It could keep you safe.
CHALLENGE
Ask yourself, could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.
PROTECT
Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve been scammed and tell the Police at reportfraud.police.uk or on 0300 123 2040.