Nearly a fifth of adults (15 percent) were the target of a doorstep scam over the last year – with people pretending to be energy suppliers, well-known brands, security firms, and more. On average, adults have been targeted four times over that period – losing an average £171 each time just for answering the door.

The most common forms of scam involved criminals falsely claiming to represent energy firms, and selling goods at an inflated price (both 26 percent) – while dodgy contractors have also been reported as common, by 17 percent.

But this could be just the beginning of an increasing problem – as 22 percent claim to have noticed an increase in the number of scammers in their neighbourhood since March 2022.

Indeed, the research of 2,000 adults, commissioned by smart home security company, Ring, found 21 percent of the population know someone who had been the victim of an attempted scam or suspected scam in the last 12 months.

Elderly parents (38 percent) and elderly neighbours (26 percent) are the ones adults are most worried about falling victim to a doorstep scam.

Dave Ward, managing director EU & international at Ring, said: “With the rise of doorstep scams in our neighbourhoods across the UK, we understand family and friends are worried about loved ones being targeted, particularly those who are older or vulnerable.

“With this in mind, we aim to provide an extra layer of protection with our technology, for those wanting to deter unwanted visitors or scammers.”

The study also found 26 percent of those living in Belfast have been targeted by scammers – more than any other city polled.

Edinburgh and Brighton were jointly the second highest, both with 24 percent being targeted – followed by Bristol (21 percent) and London (19 percent).

Source: Read Full Article