A Systematic Literature Review of Doorstep Crime: Are the Crime‐Prevention Strategies More Harmful than the Crime?

Abstract

Research literature into doorstep crime is limited. This article draws on a focused literature review, to explore existing evidence about the efficacy of crime‐prevention strategies targeting doorstep crime. The findings of the review suggest that doorstep crime strategies to protect older people frequently present offenders as a ‘monstrous figure’; promote home security aids and adaptations; increase vigilance and suspicion; and encourage new doorstep habits. This article examines the nature and development of doorstep crime, and critiques the efficacy of prevention strategies that may, it is argued, risk damaging the older person's quality of life.

From ‘Rogue Traders’ to Organized Crime Groups: Doorstep Fraud of Older Adults

“…Neighbours frequently served as witnesses and in Rita's case two had followed the offenders in their vehicles and recorded their car's registration plate. Where such strong neighbourly relations exist, this lends itself to a cocoon watch approach (Forrester et al , 1988) -where neighbours are co-opted to watch out for and report any suspicious activity in a small housing area (but see Gorden & Buchanan, 2013). There is also a preventive role for financial services staff, either those tasked with identifying and monitoring any suspicious account transactions and filing reports to the National Crime Agency or those working in customer service: if you know that the little old lady comes in every Friday and draws out £50 for groceries… and suddenly she's coming in 'Oh how much cash can I get?…”

Doorstep Security; Using a Technology Based Solution for the Prevention of Doorstep Crime

“…Security enhancements can range from simple physical solutions, such as door chains and peepholes, to audio and video intercoms and more complicated solutions such as remote video and access devices. The effectiveness of these solutions is, however, yet to be fully evaluated and understood [5]. One study found that installation of a voice intercom system provided a reduction of 21.5% in distraction related burglaries [9].…”

“…Research has shown that victims of doorstep crime are predominantly older, female and white [1]. Data from Operation Liberal, which focused on combating doorstep crime, indicated that the average age of doorstep crime victims was 81 and over two thirds (69%) were female [5]. Worryingly, it is estimated that 63% of victims of distraction burglary experience repeat victimization [6].…”

Doorstep: A doorbell security system for the prevention of doorstep crime

“…Doorstep crime has been highlighted as a priority within the Consumer Protection Partnership (CPP) Priorities Report 2013-2014 as an area which is currently or has the potential to cause, the greatest detriment to consumers and would most benefit from a co-ordinated CPP response. A recent review [3] has indicated an attrition of studies addressing doorstep crime since 2006 [3]. This paper considers the nature and prevalence of doorstep crime, in addition to prevention strategies and proposes a novel technology based solution to aid in prevention of doorstep crime.…”