Avoiding Scams

Whilst someone knocking on your door might be genuine not everyone is. It is important to know that some are rogue traders, doorstep criminals and uninvited sales people may turn up unannounced, with the intention of tricking their way into your home. 

Doorstep selling scams

lf someone comes to your door selling goods or services, don't be pressured into paying for anything on the spot until you have had a chance to discuss the offer with a friend, family member or your social worker. No reputable supplier will ever try to force you into making an instant decision.

Find out more about staying safe from door step crimes

Phone and email scams

You might receive phone calls or emails which claim to be from your bank, or from websites you have used to buy things in the past. They might ask for you to confirm your account information.

Don't trust anyone who phones or emails to ask for this, no matter how genuine it seems. No reputable bank or website will ever contact you to ask for your account password, PIN or login information.

Mail order scams

Sometimes it's hard to judge whether offers of products and services sent through the post are genuine or not. Treat with caution any letter or flyer that claims you have won a prize. Usually these are scams to get you to call an expensive telephone number to find out what you have won.

What to do?

If you think that you have been the victim of a scam it is important to let someone know. Contact Citizens Adviceline and discuss what happened and they will advise you about the next steps.