Distraction burglary - unknown strangers at the door

A "distraction burglary" is when someone tricks (or tries to trick) their way into your home by pretending to be a trusted person (council/charity worker/social services) or a tradesperson from a utility company. They tend to target older and vulnerable people because they reckon we were taught to be polite and helpful to strangers and not to say "no".

Some years ago I was working at home when two men in high viz jackets called at my door claiming to be from "gas" (never said which company) and checking for a gas leak. They claimed to have visited every house in the street except mine. I was at once suspicious of them and told them they would have to make an appointment by writing to me on their letterhead. They got arsey and claimed they had the right of entry and could force their way in if necessary. I stalled for time and called the police. When I informed them the police were on their way they left very quickly.

Police subsequently attended and after enquiry confirmed that none of the gas companies had work gangs out checking for leaks. They said that it has been an attempted distraction burglary and congratulated me on my suspicious nature and quick thinking.

The officers stated that the scammers look for streets with nice houses and cars then check the electoral role for addresses with only one name. That means they know the person they are speaking to (often elderly) is alone and may try to barge their way in even if you refuse admission. The officers advised me to remove my name from the public electoral role and also not to open the door if I was suspicious. They advised using a door chain or calling out from behind the closed door.

Fortunately I had spoken to them from an upstairs window. so did not open the door. Another good tip they gave me is that if you do not want to engage with an unknown caller tell them its not convenient because you have guests. This implies there are a number of people present which will deter them if they are up to no good.

Apparently these types of offences have increased during the pandemic with people claiming to be charity workers or HNS staff doing tests or vaccinations. As usual they have targeted older people or those living alone.

I wondered if any you have had any experience of this? Or people calling at odd times trying to convince you its an emergency of some type?