Doorstep fraud alert: How to protect your home

We've become aware of a scam targeting people in Richmond Borough, and we want to make sure you're aware of what's happening so you can protect yourself and your home.

Fraudsters are going door to door pretending to be government officials, claiming they need to verify your identity documents ahead of an upcoming census. They look convincing. They carry official-looking paperwork, laptops, and biometric machines, and they even have lists with customers' names on them.

What to watch out for

The scammers claim to be from a government department and show official-looking ID or letters. They may ask to verify identity, take photographs, or collect fingerprints, and some use laptops or biometric devices to appear more convincing. The key thing to remember is that there is no government census initiative like this. None of it is real.

Protecting yourself

If someone turns up at your door claiming to represent a government department, ask to see proper identification and don't hand over any personal information or documents unless you're completely sure they're genuine. Most importantly, don't invite unknown people into your home, and if something feels off about the interaction, trust your instincts and contact the organisation directly yourself using a number or website you've looked up, rather than one they've given you.

If you think you've been targeted

Please get in touch with us on 020 8891 5000 if you've spotted anything suspicious in your area, or you can report fraud to Action Fraud, the UK's national reporting centre, on 0300 123 2040 or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk. If you feel you're in immediate danger, call the police on 101.

Spreading the word

We'd ask you to share this warning with family, friends, neighbours, and community groups, especially anyone you think might be more vulnerable to scams, because looking out for one another is how we keep our communities safe.