17/10/2026
Someone’s at the door and you weren’t expecting them? You don’t have to open it straight away.
Distraction burglary is when a doorstep caller uses a story or a small problem to get inside, take a look around or draw you away from the front door. They might mention a leak, a nearby problem, a lost pet or ask to use your phone.
A few simple habits can help:
Check who is there before opening the door. Use a door chain or video doorbell. Never leave a stranger alone inside. Never take an unexpected caller around the back of your home. Agree a family rule that nobody is let in without a call first.
A video doorbell or front-door camera lets you see and speak to whoever is there from anywhere, helping you decide whether to answer.
Town & Country Security Systems Ltd is a Which? Trusted Trader, helping homeowners across Chesham, Amersham, Watford, High Wycombe and the wider South East feel safer at home.
Founded in 1983.
Could this help someone you know? Share it with a neighbour or older relative.