What is doorstep crime?
Doorstep crime is the term used to describe any crime committed on the householder’s doorstep in order to either steal, con or cheat money out of the householder. There are many ways this can be done, and it is extremely lucrative to those involved.
Three main types of doorstep crime that most people will recognise are:
1. Bogus property repairs: These are the type of people who knock on your door, and will inform you that work needs doing on your house.
2. Bogus officials/other types of distraction burglar: Bogus officials are criminals who pose as officials. They may claim they are from the water board or gas board, or even the Council. They are often very convincing and will sometimes present you with what appears to be official ID. Their aim is to gain entry into your home. Once inside, one person will distract you whilst their accomplice (of whom you may be unaware) will burgle your home. REMEMBER THE WATERBOARD NO LONGER EXISTS!
3. Unscrupulous sales by cold calling to homes: This collection of criminals cover those who visit homes offering to sell inferior products such as fish, dusters, chairs, or settees. They are often exploiting the opportunity to identify soft targets, from which they can steal, especially those people who have large sums of money in their house. These people will steal if they are given the opportunity, or if not, will sell or swap the victims details with other criminals who will target them at a later time.
Who is most at risk?
The people most likely to be a target are vulnerable older adults particularly those who live alone. Research has shown the profile of the most victimised person is a white, 81 year old female who lives alone. This does not mean that these criminals will not prey on other vulnerable targets given half the chance – they are ultimately interested in making money in the easiest possible way.
Other people likely to be at risk are:
- The elderly
- The recently bereaved (these types of doorstep callers look in the Obituary columns to spot any likely victims)
- Those who are physically less able
- Those with learning difficulties
- Those whose first language is not English
What can you do to help yourself and those in your community?
Doorstep crime is grossly under-reported. Victims of rogue traders are often either too embarrassed or too intimidated to report the incident - many just want to put it behind them.
We urge you to report any instances of the type of doorstep crime described above to your local Trading Standards or Police. Not only may they be able to help you, but also they can help warn other people in the community that rogue traders are operating in the area.
You can help by watching out for vulnerable consumers and encouraging them not to deal with anyone who cold-calls at their home.
If you suspect it, report it AND if you're unsure don't open the door!
Remember, your front door is your best barrier against these people - by not even opening your door to them, they cannot abuse your trust.
