Imagine this: It’s 2 PM on a Tuesday. A knock comes. The person on the other side looks harmless—perhaps someone in a uniform, an individual who looks lost, or even a child. Instantly, your first instinct is to be helpful, to be polite. However, criminals rely on that exact instinct. Instead of brute force, they use social engineering to get you to open your door. Ultimately, these “harmless” tricks are designed to exploit your good nature. Recognizing them is your first and most important line of defense.
1. The “Distressed” Stranger
A person (often a woman) knocks frantically. They might say their car broke down and they desperately need to use your phone. Alternatively, they may look sick and ask for a glass of water or to use your bathroom. This trick triggers your empathy. You feel like a bad person for saying no to someone in clear distress.
Above all, keep the door locked. Speak through the door or a window. Say, “I’m not comfortable opening the door, but I will call 911 (or a tow truck) for you right now.” A legitimate person will be grateful. On the other hand, a criminal will likely get angry or leave.
2. The “Fake Utility Worker”
Someone in a plausible-looking uniform (think a reflective vest and a clipboard) shows up. They say they’re from the gas or electric company, claiming there’s an “urgent gas leak” or they need to “check your meter” immediately. It creates a powerful sense of urgency and authority. Consequently, you’re afraid not to comply.
Do not open the door. Instead, ask for their ID, which you can look at through the peephole or window. Then, call the utility company yourself using the number on your bill (not one they provide) to verify their visit. Legitimate workers, of course, will wait.
3. The “Urgent Delivery” Ploy
A person in a FedEx or UPS-style uniform has a package. They insist it requires an immediate signature. Or, it’s a food delivery you didn’t order, and they “just need to confirm the address. “We are all used to deliveries. Because of this, it feels like a normal, everyday event.
If you didn’t order anything, obviously, don’t open the door. You can say, “Just leave it on the porch.” If, however, they insist on a signature for a package you don’t recognize, refuse it. Alternatively, ask them to hold it at the depot. The bottom line is never open the door for an unexpected delivery.
4. The “Child in Need”
This is a particularly cruel one. A child knocks on your door, claiming they lost their kitten in your backyard or their ball went over your fence. They ask if you can help them look. It’s a child. As a result, all our protective instincts scream at us to help.
Unfortunately, this is a common tactic, and an accomplice is almost always waiting nearby. Keep the door locked. Tell the child, “I’m sorry, I can’t help you right now,” or “Stay right there, I’ll get my (spouse)” (even if you’re alone). As another option, offer to look for them while they wait outside. Under no circumstances should you let them in or go into your yard with them.
5. The “Mistaken Identity”
Someone knocks and asks for a person by name, like “Is Sarah here?” When you say they have the wrong house, they try to engage you. For example, “Oh, I’m so sorry, my phone died. Can I just come in for one second to charge it?” They’ve created a “normal” social interaction. The non-threatening first question lowers your guard, so the second question feels like a small, polite request.
Be firm. Say, “I’m sorry, you have the wrong house. I can’t help you.” Immediately close the door. There is no need to engage, explain, or apologize. Remember, “No” is a complete sentence.
6. The “Impersonating Authority”
Someone claims to be a police officer, detective, or even a census-taker. They say they’re investigating a “nearby crime” and need to ask you some questions “for your own safety. “It’s intimidating. We are trained to comply with law enforcement.
Real police officers will not be offended if you verify them. Therefore, ask for their badge number and their department. Keep the door locked and tell them you are calling the non-emergency police number to verify their identity. Without a doubt, a real cop will wait. A fake one will run.
Your Door Is Your Boundary. You Control It.
Admittedly, it feels rude to say no. It also feels unkind to be suspicious. Criminals know this. In fact, they are counting on you to be polite. But your safety is infinitely more important than a stranger’s feelings. Furthermore, you never have to open your door. A legitimate person will understand, while a dangerous one will be filtered out. Always trust your gut. A locked door is not impolite; on the contrary, it’s smart.
Have you ever experienced a suspicious knock at your door? Share your story (safely) below.
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