One in four residents in Belfast (26%), Edinburgh (24%), and Brighton (24%) have been targeted by doorstep scammers over the last year, research has found.
A poll of 2,000 adults found that 22% feel their neighbourhood has seen an increase in scammers since March 2022 – with 15% of the population having been targeted during this time.
The top types of scams that are on the rise include fraudsters trying to sell goods at an inflated price, or falsely claiming to represent energy firms (both 26%) – and 17% have also reported dodgy contractors as increasingly common.
During the last 12 months, the average adult has been targeted four times – losing an average of £171 each time, just for answering the door.
And the research, commissioned by smart home security company, Ring, found 21% of the population know someone who had been the victim of an attempted scam or suspected scam in the last 12 months.
Man in 30s dies after being stabbed in park sparking police probeElderly parents (38%) and elderly neighbours (26%) 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 that 21% of those living in Bristol, and 19% of Londoners, have been targeted by scammers over the last year.
TOP 10 UK CITIES TARGETED BY DOORSTEP SCAMMERS:
TOP TIPS TO AVOID BEING A VICTIM OF DOORSTEP SCAMMERS – from Independent Age, a UK charity which provides support for older people: