Southern Sydney residents have warned people on Facebook about scam door-knockers in the area.
People from Engadine and Caringbah have reported suspicious behaviour by two men door-knocking from a company called "Smart Property".
One Engadine woman wrote that when she asked for information about the company she was told to "Google it".
She said the men did not want to leave her doorstep when asked.
One of the men returned later asking to be let inside to use the phone.
Sutherland police crime prevention officer Senior Constable Dave Hayes said door-knockers were required to carry legitimate identification, and must leave a premises when asked.
He said not to let door-knockers inside.
Traders are allowed to use door-to-door selling to promote goods or services directly to consumers if they comply with Australian Consumer Law.
Some charities also use door-knocking for fund-raising.
It is unlawful for door-to-door salespeople to approach people on a Sunday or public holiday, before 9am or after 6pm on a weekday and before 9am or after 5pm on a Saturday.
RULES OF ENGAGEMENT
The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) website states that many legitimate businesses sell things through door-to-door marketing; however, ‘‘some scammers also use this approach’’.
‘‘Sometimes scammers pretend to conduct a survey so they can get your personal details or to disguise their sales pitch until they have been talking to you for a while,’’ the ACCC website states.
‘‘If someone comes to your door, ask to see their identification. You do not have to let them in, and they must leave if you ask them to.’’
Businesses often advertise for door-knockers on free trading sites such as Gumtree.
Advertisements commonly ask for students, travellers and backpackers.
A search for ‘‘Smart Property’’ on the ABN register shows 32 possible matches in Australia.
Report a scam: scamwatch.gov.au; 1300 795 995.
Have you had any trouble with door-knockers?