15 Door-Knock Tricks FBI Agents Warn Seniors Living Alone About

A strong lock can stop forced entry—but it can’t protect someone who opens the door for the wrong person. This video breaks down fifteen doorstep tricks used against seniors living alone, including fake utility workers, two-person distraction teams, bogus couriers, emergency stories, and scams built around the names and voices of family members. Most of the defenses cost nothing. Keep unexpected visitors outside. Verify workers using a phone number you already trust. Never hand cash or valuables to a stranger at the door. Keep every other entrance locked while someone is talking to you outside. And if anyone claims a relative sent them, require a private family code word before believing the story. The strongest defense is simple: a closed door, independent verification, and rules decided before the knock comes.