Door-to-door / energy scam
Pushy salespeople pretending to be from your energy or NBN provider.
How it works
Someone knocks claiming to be from 'your provider' or a government rebate scheme. They ask to see a recent bill, then sign you onto a worse contract — or steal account details to switch you without consent.
Common scenarios to watch for
This scam shows up in several different shapes. Recognise the pattern, not just one message.
'Energy rebate' doorknock
Claims a government rebate that needs your bill + bank details. Actually switches you to a worse retailer or steals identity.
"Hi, I'm with the energy efficiency program — can I see your last bill to apply your $250 rebate?"
Red flags to spot
- Did the doorknocker ask to see your energy bill or bank details?
- Are they claiming a government rebate you haven't heard of?
- Did they pressure you to sign something on the spot?
- Can you verify the program on a government website before handing over details?
Fake solar inspection
Says your solar system is 'unsafe' or 'underperforming' and pressures you into thousands of dollars of unnecessary upgrades.
"Mandatory inspection — your inverter is flagged. $2,400 to replace today, otherwise it's a fire risk."
Red flags to spot
- Did someone claim your solar system is unsafe without prior notice?
- Are they demanding immediate payment for an urgent replacement?
- Did they use fear tactics (fire risk, electrical hazard)?
- Can you get a second opinion from your original installer or a certified electrician?
NBN 'upgrade' doorknock
Pretends to be NBN Co and signs you onto a new retailer contract by 'verifying' your address on a handheld device.
"Fibre upgrade in your street — just sign this tablet to keep your existing speed, no cost change."
Red flags to spot
- Did they ask you to sign or tap a device without explaining the full contract?
- Are they claiming to be from NBN Co but selling you a retailer plan?
- Did they use confusing language about 'upgrades' and 'no cost change'?
- Can you verify any NBN work in your area through nbnco.com.au?
Red flags
- 🚩Won't show ID or a company letter
- 🚩Asks to see your bill or account number
- 🚩Pressure to sign on the doorstep
- 🚩Claims a government rebate that needs your bank details
What to do
- 1Don't show bills or sign anything at the door.
- 2Call your provider directly to check any offer.
- 3Report door-to-door scams to your state Fair Trading office.
Who's targeted
- Seniors at home during the day.
- Migrant families unfamiliar with local energy retailers.
Why it works
- Wearing a hi-vis vest and lanyard adds instant credibility.
- 'Government rebate' wording sounds official.
Common variations
Different shapes of the same scam — recognise the pattern.
- 1'We're checking on your provider's overcharging.'
- 2'Solar / battery rebate' requiring bank details on the spot.
- 3Door-to-door NBN 'upgrade' demanding ID and account login.
If you've already been scammed
- 1Contact your real energy provider to undo any switch.
- 2Report to your state's Fair Trading and the Energy Ombudsman.
- 3If you shared ID, contact IDCARE.
Frequently asked
Can someone really switch my energy without consent?▾
Yes — it's called 'slamming'. Your provider must reverse it.
Are government rebates ever door-to-door?▾
No. Rebates are applied via your retailer or claimed through state portals.
Do I have to show my bill?▾
Never. Your bill has all the data a scammer needs.
Related scams
Connected patterns you should also learn — ranked by how much they overlap with this one.
Fake government messages
myGov, Medicare, Centrelink lookalikes asking you to 'verify'.
Read guideNBN / telco disconnection scam
Robocalls saying your internet will be cut off in two hours.
Read guideMedicare & health fund impersonation
Calls or texts pretending to be Medicare, Bupa or Medibank wanting to 'verify' your details.
Read guideBank SMS scam
Fake bank text telling you to 'verify' a payment via a link.
Read guideFake immigration agent
Unregistered 'agents' charging huge fees for fake visa help.
Read guideFake job offer
'Easy money' jobs that ask for an upfront fee or your bank details.
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