Tradecraft teaches us to question what we see at face value, a skill that’s just as useful at home. Before you open the door, make sure you know exactly who’s waiting on the other side.

Your front door is the first or most important line of defense for your home. It’s the barrier between you and whoever, or whatever wants to come inside. Opening that door without verifying who’s on the other side can put you, your family, and your property at unnecessary risk.

Whether it’s an unexpected visitor, a delivery person, or someone claiming to represent a company, it’s critical to know who you’re dealing with before you grant access. Let’s talk tradecraft for the home – practical ways to verify who’s knocking and how to keep things secure.


      Why Verifying Matters

We live in a time when home invasions, scams, and impersonation tactics are on the rise. Criminals are constantly evolving their methods, and one of the simplest ways they exploit vulnerabilities is by playing on our natural inclination to trust. Many operatives, including myself, know how critical it is to confirm identities – because failing to do so can lead to disastrous consequences. The same logic applies to your doorstep.

Here’s the thing: anyone can claim to be someone they’re not. A fake uniform, a convincing cover story, or even a package in hand can make someone seem legitimate. But trust can’t just be given – it has to be earned. And that starts with verification.

• 65% of home invasions start with the criminal gaining access through a ruse at the front door. 

• 1 in 3 home intrusions involve a perpetrator posing as a legitimate worker, such as a delivery driver, contractor, or utility employee.

• Over 50% of burglars knock or ring the doorbell first to ensure someone is home, often using a cover story like being lost, delivering a package, or looking for someone.

• Nearly 30% of criminals gain access to homes by using fake uniforms or ID badges. 

• 10% of home invasion robberies involve someone impersonating law enforcement, relying on fake badges or uniforms to intimidate victims into compliance.

These statistics show just how critical it is to verify before opening your door. Criminals know that most people let their guard down when presented with a uniform, a badge, or a polite story. Staying vigilant and taking simple steps to verify who’s there can prevent you from becoming a victim.


      Common Imposter Tactics

Fake Delivery Driver

They carry a box or package and claim they’re delivering something to you. Often, they’ll insist it needs a signature or attempt to hand it off personally to get the door open.

Utility Worker Impersonation

They dress in uniforms and claim to represent your gas, electric, or water company. They’ll often say they need to check your meter, test equipment, or respond to an “emergency.”

Law Enforcement or Government Official

Criminals posing as police officers, federal agents, or census takers try to intimidate or exploit trust. They may even flash fake badges or official-looking paperwork.

Home Repair or Maintenance Worker

Claiming to be a contractor or handyman, they’ll say they’re there to fix something – like your roof, plumbing, or HVAC – sometimes pointing out fake “damage” they noticed from outside.

Charity or Fundraiser Representative

Someone claiming to collect donations for a cause can use guilt or goodwill to gain access. They’ll often hold fake brochures or ID badges to appear legitimate.

Neighbor in Distress

A criminal may knock pretending to be a nearby neighbor who’s lost their pet, had a car breakdown, or experienced some sort of emergency, asking for help or access to a phone.

Surveyor or Salesperson

They might say they’re conducting a survey, offering a free service, or promoting a product. The goal is to keep you engaged at the door or get a foot in.

Authority on a “Safety Check”

Someone might claim they’re performing a safety inspection for your smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, or other systems, attempting to bluff their way inside.

Delivery Mix-Up

They claim they’ve delivered a package to your address by mistake and need to retrieve it – or drop off a “replacement.” This can be a setup to get inside.

Friend or Family Acquaintance

They pretend to know someone in your household, referencing vague or fabricated details about your family or friends to seem familiar and trustworthy.


      Use a Peephole or Doorbell Camera

Never underestimate the value of seeing who’s there before you open the door. Peepholes are old-school but effective. Better yet, invest in a smart doorbell camera. These devices let you see, hear, and even speak to whoever’s at your door from the safety of your phone. If you’re not home, the camera gives you the added bonus of recording footage for future reference.

When using a camera, look beyond just their face – scan their body language, hands, and anything they’re carrying. Does anything seem off? Trust your instincts.


      Ask for Identification

If someone claims to be from a company, utility service, or government agency, ask for ID before opening the door. A legitimate representative should have no problem showing you their credentials. Don’t just glance at the badge – inspect it. If something doesn’t feel right, call the company or agency directly to verify they’ve sent someone to your home.

Don’t use the phone number they provide; look up the official number yourself.

Pro Tip: A real operative knows the devil’s in the details. Look for inconsistencies – misspellings, low-quality materials, or a lack of logos. Scammers often cut corners, and their “credentials” reflect it.


Always Verify Before Opening Your Door - Home Security Tradecraft

      Verify Deliveries

A common tactic for criminals is to pose as delivery drivers. If you didn’t order anything, don’t assume the package is legit. Check the label before accepting it, and never let someone inside your home just because they’re holding a box. If the delivery seems questionable, contact the company directly to confirm its origin.

And remember, a genuine delivery person doesn’t need to step inside your home to drop off a package. Keep the exchange outside.


      Communicate Without Opening the Door

If you’re not sure about someone, don’t open the door to talk to them. Speak through the door or use an intercom system if you have one. This keeps a physical barrier between you and whoever’s on the other side while still allowing communication.

Be polite but firm. If they get pushy or aggressive, it’s a red flag.

If they claim to represent a company or service, ask for details like their name and purpose, then verify with the company directly. Always remember that a legitimate visitor will understand your caution, while someone with bad intentions may try to pressure or guilt you into opening up.


      Trust Your Instincts

When something feels off, trust that gut instinct. Human intuition is sharper than we give it credit for, and if you feel uneasy about someone at your door, don’t open it. You’re under no obligation to engage with strangers, especially if they weren’t invited.

If someone’s behavior makes you uncomfortable, call a neighbor, friend, or even local law enforcement. It’s better to overreact than to regret a bad decision later.


      Defensive Measures

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The goal isn’t to escalate a situation but to have the ability to protect yourself and your family if someone forces their way into your home. Being armed doesn’t mean looking for a fight – it means being ready if one comes to you.


      Have a Plan

One key aspect of good tradecraft is preparation, and that applies to your home as well. Know how you’d respond if someone suspicious shows up. Keep your phone nearby, and make sure your family members know not to open the door for strangers. Set boundaries with your kids or roommates – everyone in the household should understand the importance of verifying before opening the door.

You should also consider basic home security measures like motion-activated lights, visible security cameras, or even a sign that states your home is monitored. Criminals look for easy targets, and a well-secured home often makes them think twice.


In any situation, your safety is more important than being polite or accommodating. Verifying who’s at your door isn’t just smart – it’s necessary. Criminals thrive on complacency, so don’t give them the opportunity. By incorporating these simple steps into your daily routine, you’ll make your home less vulnerable and give yourself peace of mind.

Remember: whether it’s in the field or at home, tradecraft starts with awareness. Stay sharp, stay secure, and always verify before opening your door.


Your home door is not an invitation; it’s a checkpoint. Verify who’s knocking before you let them in.

[OPTICS : Burglars Disguised as Utility Workers]

[INTEL : Home Invasion Defense Tactics]