Door-to-door scams
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Here is an example of a door-to-door scam
The fraudster knocks on your door and typically asked you to come outside to hear an offer for a product or service. They may even tell you there's a problem with your fence, water, main break, or electrical problems and need to come inside to check your fuse box. But whatever the scam may be, their primary goal is to distract you while a confederate sneaks into your house and ransacks your home, stealing your cash and valuables and then they're gone.
We are living in a high-tech world, but old-school scammers still use old-fashioned techniques to steal from people, especially older Americans and you know why? Because these methods still work.
Here are some tips to prevent scammers from unwanted solicitation scams
- Don't open the door for a stranger or unexpected visitors, especially if you do not call for a service, and never indicate you're home alone. If asked, say a family member is inside your house.
- Don't open the door for a stranger or unexpected visitors, especially if you do not call for a service.
- Never indicate you're home alone. If asked, say a family member is inside your house.
- Don't fall for unsolicited sales pitches for a product or service you don't need.
- Always ask to see identification and verify their employment by calling the company or town they claim they work for.
- Take note of the vehicle being driven as well as the person's attire and physical characteristics if possible. Wright down the vehicle plate number.
- Keep your valuables in a safe and keep that safe hidden in an area outside your bedroom.
- Don't be afraid to say no or ask them to leave.
- Don't give out personal information: Never give out your personal or financial information to a door-to-door salesperson.
- If someone suspicious comes to your house or unfortunately, you realize someone has been in your house without your permission, call your local police immediately.
- Share this information with family members, our neighbors, and community groups.