Trading Standards officers at Staffordshire County Council are offering their top tips on staying safe and avoiding doorstep crime.
The reminder comes at a time when reports of doorstep crime and incidents involving rogue traders increase.
Doorstep crime comes in many forms, including rogue traders, distraction burglary, con artists, scammers and people pretending to be officials. They often target the most vulnerable, including the elderly.
Rogue traders often charge victims extortionate rates for their work, which is often not even required, of poor quality or never completed. Doorstep criminals also employ tactics like posing as utilities or council officials to obtain personal or financial information.
Pressure selling tactics, such as claims that work must be done today or special discounted prices are only available on that day should be treated as a red flag. No legitimate trader operates in this way. In some circumstances, contracts agreed during doorstep visits may include cancellation rights, but the safest option is always to walk away and take time to think before committing to anything.
Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“Doorstep criminals deliberately target people they believe are more vulnerable, which is why it’s so important everyone knows how to protect themselves.
“If someone turns up uninvited offering work or claiming to be an official, it’s absolutely okay to say no and close the door. Taking simple steps, like refusing upfront payments, asking for ID and using ‘No Cold Callers’ signs, really can make a difference.
“Our Trading Standards team is here to support residents across the county all year round. If something doesn’t feel right, please report it. Doing so helps protect others. If you feel your safety is at risk, call 999.”
Some advice on preventing doorstep crime includes:
- Get a ‘No Cold Callers’ sign for your door to help keep doorstep criminals away.
- Look into smart doorbell cameras for extra surveillance.
- Ask anyone claiming to be an official to show their identification. If still unsure, call the organisation using a trusted number you find yourself.
- Never agree to work offered by unsolicited callers, never pay up front, and never feel pressured to sign anything on your doorstep. Genuine traders will not rush you into making quick decisions.
Officers are also working with legitimate traders who carry out door-to-door sales to ensure they understand their responsibilities. Doing things properly helps protect customers, and also protects businesses from complaints, refunds and enforcement action.
People can report suspected doorstep crime to Staffordshire County Council’s Trading Standards team via Trading Standards Report It.
Anyone feeling threatened should contact the police on 999 or 101.
