Protect yourself from distraction burglaries

A distraction burglary happens when someone tricks their way into your house to steal money or valuables.

Often, they will pose as officials or ask for your help with something. They make up a story to get into your home.

Common distractions

Common stories used in distraction burglaries include: 

• Claiming there is a water, gas, or electricity emergency
• Asking to check pipes, water, or wiring
• Pretending to need help, such as asking for water, a phone, or wanting to leave a message for a neighbour

How to protect yourself

A genuine caller will be happy to wait outside while you verify them, by calling their organisation or checking their ID.

• Use a door chain, spy hole, or speak to them through a window
• Don’t be pressured into opening the door for anyone you don’t know, who doesn’t have an appointment, or won’t let you check their ID
• Be aware of tailgating - someone may try to follow you into the communal entrance 
• Don’t keep large sums of cash at home
• Never let anyone into your home if you’re unsure. A genuine visitor will understand. 

To ensure we’re providing residents with safe homes, each location has its own security measures that we are responsible for maintaining. As these are tailored to suit your homes, they can look different for each location. If you want to learn more about the security in and around your home, speak to your location manager.

More information and advice

You can find more tips on keeping your home safe on the Independent Age website.

If you see suspicious behaviour and are concerned, call 101 to report what you have seen, please call 999 in an emergency situation.