PanicStation.org
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uk Personal safety & immediate danger fake delivery person at door • pretending to be a courier • bogus delivery driver entry • stranger at communal door • someone buzzing my flat • unexpected delivery at intercom • parcel delivery ruse • suspicious person in lobby • tailgating into building • piggybacking through security door • building entry scam • letting in a stranger mistake • delivery uniform looks real • pressured to open the door • courier says for another resident • someone wants access code • door buzzer safety • apartment block security door • suspicious missed delivery message • someone won’t leave doorway

What to do if…
you suspect someone is trying to get access to your building by pretending to be delivering something

Short answer

Don’t buzz them in or open the door. Keep a physical barrier between you and them while you verify, and if they won’t leave or try to force entry, call 999 (or 112).

Do not do these things

  • Don’t “just let them in quickly” because they look like a courier or seem impatient.
  • Don’t share entry codes, swipe/fob access, or hold a communal door for someone you don’t know.
  • Don’t go downstairs alone to “sort it out” if you feel unsure or pressured.
  • Don’t argue on the doorstep or let the situation pull you into a face-to-face confrontation.
  • Don’t click “missed delivery” links or pay “redelivery fees” from unexpected texts/emails while you’re stressed.

What to do now

  1. Create a safer pause. Lock your door and step back from it. If you use a chain/door bar, use it while you’re speaking—don’t do anything that would stop you leaving quickly in an emergency (for example, a fire alarm). If you’re at the building entry system, don’t buzz anyone in.
  2. Use distance to assess. Speak through the closed door/intercom only. Ask:
    • “Who is it for (name/flat number)?”
    • “Which company are you with?”
      Then say: “I’m not letting anyone in. Please ring the intended flat / contact the recipient.”
  3. Make “no” simple and repeatable. Use one line and repeat it:
    • “I can’t help. Please use the correct buzzer.”
    • “Leave it with reception/concierge.” (If you have one.)
    • “If there’s no reception, please mark it undeliverable / take it back.”
      You don’t need to justify yourself.
  4. Verify without relying on what they tell you. If you’re expecting a parcel, check tracking in the official app/website you normally use (not via a link they provide). If you can’t verify quickly, treat it as unverified and do not grant entry.
  5. Loop in someone who can act on the building now.
    • If there’s a concierge/caretaker/security, contact them immediately.
    • If not, message your building management/landlord/managing agent: “Possible fake delivery attempt at [door/lobby] at [time]. Please check communal door is secure and review any CCTV.”
  6. Escalate based on risk.
    • If someone is attempting to force entry, threatening you, or you feel in immediate danger, call 999 (or 112).
    • If they’ve gone but you’re concerned (e.g., trying multiple buzzers, testing doors, tailgating), call 101 to report suspicious behaviour.
      If you can do it safely, note the time, description, and any vehicle details.
  7. If this started from a “delivery problem” message you clicked: stop and reset. Don’t enter passwords or payment details. If you’ve already shared card/bank details, contact your bank immediately. You can forward suspicious texts to 7726 (free) to report them to your mobile provider.

What can wait

  • You don’t need to decide right now whether it was “definitely” a scam.
  • You don’t need to confront them, chase them, or gather proof.
  • You don’t need to change locks or overhaul building security in the moment (just report any faults promptly).
  • If you think you’ve been scammed (money/details taken), you can report fraud once you’re safe and calm (the route differs across the UK, so use the official “Report Fraud” service for your nation, or Police Scotland via 101).

Important reassurance

It’s normal to feel awkward refusing entry—these situations rely on politeness and urgency. In secure buildings, not letting unknown people in is a sensible default, even if it turns out to be legitimate.

Scope note

These are first steps to stabilise the situation and prevent an unsafe entry. Follow-up (building security improvements, formal complaints, longer reporting) can happen after you’re calm and safe.

Important note

This is general safety information, not legal advice. If you believe someone is trying to enter unlawfully or you feel at risk, prioritise getting to safety and contacting emergency services.

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