Doorstep scams
Older people are often the target of doorstep scammers. Find out how to protect yourself against the fraudsters.
Many of us feel more vulnerable as we get older – even in our own homes where we should feel safest. But there are plenty of things you can do at home to feel safer and put your mind at ease.
Improving the security of your doors and windows can reduce the risk of your home being burgled – and help you feel safer. It's not necessarily hugely expensive, either.
You can fit your front door with:
A door chain can be helpful – but avoid leaving it on all the time if there's a chance family, carers or emergency services might need to get in.
You can take these precautions to secure your windows too:
When getting your doors and windows fitted with locks, it's a good idea to check your locksmith is an approved member of the Master Locksmith Association (MLA).
Search the Master Locksmith Association directory
Home security devices can help prevent crime and help you feel safer.
Some home insurance companies offer discounts on home contents insurance if you have an approved alarm installed – so it can be worth checking with them.
It's a good idea to:
When you're thinking about home security, it's important to remember garages, sheds and passageways too. Here are some security measures you could take:
Think about marking valuable possessions with your postcode and the number of your house or flat. Marked property is harder for thieves to sell on, so it can put them off. Also, if something valuable of yours does get stolen, the police are more likely to identify and return it to you.
You can register your valuable possessions online for free on the Immobilise Property Register. This website helps police identify owners of lost or stolen property.
Ask your local Neighbourhood Watch or the Safer Neighbourhood team at your local police station for help with marking possessions.
Taking some simple precautions before going on holiday can help keep your home safe and give you peace of mind while you’re away.
You could:
Lots of us like to post holiday updates on social media, but it can be best not to mention the specifics – you don't want everyone knowing when your home will be empty.
You should only let someone into your home if you’re absolutely sure that they’re genuine. Any genuine person will have ID that they won't mind showing you. You don’t need to open the door for them and if you feel uneasy, you can always ask someone to come back another time.
Be wary of bogus callers who try and trick their way into your home by pretending to be someone they aren't – whether that's a meter reader, police officer, council official, or just someone who needs help. You can ask the person to come back another time when someone you trust will be with you.
Similarly, doorstep traders aren't always honest. They can try to trick or push you into buying goods or services at high prices. Don't agree to anything, sign a contract or pay for anything until you've talked to someone you trust – and don't be afraid to tell them to leave.
Not sure? Don't open the door.
And if you feel threatened – by a doorstep caller or by anyone else – dial 999 and ask for the police.
If you think you’ve been burgled when you arrive home, don’t go inside unless you’re sure the intruder has gone. Dial 999 and ask for the police straight away. If you don't need an emergency response, call 101 to report the burglary.
If you've been burgled, it's important to do the following:
Victim Support offers free practical and emotional support to people who have experienced crime, whether or not you report it to the police.
We offer support through our free advice line on 0800 678 1602. Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. We also have specialist advisers at over 120 local Age UKs.
Older people are often the target of doorstep scammers. Find out how to protect yourself against the fraudsters.
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