Protect yourself against scams
Avoid doorstep scams
Unfortunately, in every area there are rogue traders who want to cheat us out of our money. We will never be able to eliminate them completely. When someone tries to sell you something or gets you to sign up for something in your home, someone else’s home or your place of work, they may be a genuine salesperson, but sometimes it’s a scam. Some of the things you can do to stop yourself getting taken in by doorstep scams are:
- Don’t agree to repair work being done on the spot
- Avoid handing over money before work is started
- Never agree to go with a trader to the bank to get money out
- Check out the trader’s details
- Always read documents carefully before you sign them
- Don’t get taken in by sales banter or high pressure selling techniques
- Keep your doors locked - Make sure your back door is locked whenever you answer the front door and always lock your door if you're asked to go outside to look at something, such as broken guttering. This prevents you from being distracted while a thief gets in and burgles your house
For more information on how to avoid doorstep crime and rogue trading visit citizens advice website (adviceguide.org.uk)
Further information on scams:
- For more information on how to protect yourself from becoming a victim of scams, please visit friends against scams (friendsagainstscams.org.uk)
- Citizens advice: check if something might be a scam (citizensadvice.org.uk) or call the citizens advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 11 33
- Action Fraud: to report fraud if you have been scammed, visit Action Fraud's website (actionfraud.police.uk) or call 0300 123 2040
Remember to contact your bank if you think you have been scammed.
Last updated: 19/09/2023 11:01
