PanicStation.org
UK USA
uk Personal safety & immediate danger bogus caller at the door • doorstep crime • rogue trader at doorstep • fake utility worker • unverified official visit • stranger claims council worker • someone wants to enter my home • unexpected worker at my door • door knock scam • distraction burglary risk • cannot verify identity quickly • feels pressured to open door • suspicious caller at home • unexpected repairs offer • someone claims emergency inspection • official looking badge at door • impostor posing as authority • doorstep safety

What to do if…
someone claims to be a worker or official at your door but you cannot verify it quickly

Short answer

Keep the door closed and locked, and verify their identity using a phone number you find independently. If you feel unsafe or they won’t leave, call the police.

Do not do these things

  • Do not open the door “just to talk” if you feel pressured or unsure.
  • Do not let them inside “for a quick look” or to “use the toilet/phone”.
  • Do not use any phone number, QR code, link, or ID-check method they provide.
  • Do not hand over personal documents (bank card, passport, bills) at the doorstep.
  • Do not go to another room to “get something” while they’re at the door.
  • Do not argue on the doorstep if they become pushy—end the conversation and switch to verifying by phone.

What to do now

  1. Create a safer pause. Keep the door closed and locked. Speak through the door, an intercom, or a window if you can.
  2. Use one clear line and repeat it. “I can’t let anyone in without verifying. Please wait outside while I check.” If they push back, repeat once and stop engaging.
  3. Collect details without opening. Ask them to hold ID up to a window/peephole/camera. Note their name, organisation, and any reference/work order number. (Treat ID as “not proof” until confirmed.)
  4. Verify using a number you trust (not one they give you).
    • Utility: call your supplier using a number from your bill/statement or the official website (typed in yourself).
    • Council/landlord/housing repairs: call the council switchboard or your housing provider using a number you already have.
    • If they claim to be police: if you’re not in immediate danger, call 101 and ask to verify whether anyone should be at your address. If you feel threatened or they try to force entry, call 999.
  5. Don’t let “urgency” force the door open.
    • If you smell gas or are worried about a gas/carbon monoxide emergency: get to fresh air if needed and call 0800 111 999 yourself.
    • If they claim an electricity network issue or power cut: call 105 (the free power cut number) yourself.
  6. If they won’t leave, are trying to push past you, or you feel unsafe: call 999.
  7. Bring in another person if you can. If you’re alone, call a friend/neighbour and keep them on speaker while you verify (without mentioning financial details out loud at the door).
  8. After they’ve gone, secure and record. Lock doors, check windows, and write down (or voice-note) the time, what they said, and a description. Save doorbell/CCTV footage if you have it.
  9. If you shared details or paid anything: contact your bank immediately using a number on your card/banking app (or a trusted route like 159 if your bank supports it). Then report it to Report Fraud/Action Fraud as soon as you can.

What can wait

  • You do not need to decide right now whether it was “definitely a scam” or “definitely genuine”.
  • You do not need to confront them, prove anything, or “catch them out”.
  • You do not need to book repairs, sign anything, or make payments at the doorstep.

Important reassurance

Freezing, feeling rude, or feeling pressured is a normal response when someone shows up looking official. You’re allowed to keep the door closed and take time to verify—legitimate organisations can handle a short delay.

Scope note

These are first steps to keep you safe and buy time. If access was gained, money was taken, or threats were made, you may need follow-up support from the police, your bank, and fraud-reporting services.

Important note

This is general safety information, not legal advice. If you feel in immediate danger, call emergency services.

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