Think Before You Open: Lost Creek Residents Urged to Stay Alert as Door-to-Door Scams Spike in Summer
With more families home during the summer—especially older children staying alone while parents work—local law enforcement and consumer advocates are urging Lost Creek residents to stay alert as door-to-door scams make an aggressive return across Greater Houston.
From impersonators posing as utility workers or security officers to solar panel sales reps making lofty promises, scam artists are targeting local neighborhoods in search of easy victims.
Scammers often take advantage of the summer months when more people are home, especially children and teens. With shifting routines, frequent deliveries, contractor visits, and casual door traffic, residents may be more likely to answer a knock without hesitation—creating opportunities for fraudsters to exploit the moment and catch people off guard.
Lost Creek Is Not Immune: Recent Scams in the Region
Fake Security Officer in Cinco Ranch
Last fall, a man pretending to be a security officer went door-to-door in the Cinco Ranch area, making residents uncomfortable with strange and inappropriate remarks. Authorities confirmed he had no law enforcement affiliation.
Solar Panel Sales Deceptions
Multiple reports from across the Houston region prompted new state legislation in May 2025. Now, solar panel salespeople must register with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation—a response to complaints of false claims, aggressive sales, and unfulfilled contracts.
Post-Storm Contractor Scams
In the wake of recent hail and windstorms, the Better Business Bureau issued a warning about fraudulent contractors. These scammers go door-to-door offering quick repairs, only to vanish after taking upfront payments. Now that hurricane season is underway, there's an even greater risk of scam contractors showing up after storms offering fast fixes for roof or fence damage.
Utility Worker Impersonators
CenterPoint Energy has repeatedly warned customers to beware of impersonators threatening service disconnection unless paid on the spot—a red flag, since the company does not conduct disconnection visits without prior notice.
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The Summer Vulnerability: When Kids Answer the Door
As school lets out, many Katy households have teenagers or middle schoolers spending part of the day alone. Scammers may view this as an easy opening.
Parents are strongly encouraged to talk with their children—especially older kids who may be home alone during the day—about the importance of not opening the door for strangers or sharing any personal information. Even individuals who appear official, carrying a badge or clipboard, may not be who they claim to be.
It’s also critical to remind kids not to tell a stranger that their parents aren’t home.
How to Protect Your Family & Neighborhood
Here are simple but powerful steps all residents can take:
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Don’t Open the Door to Strangers: Use peepholes, doorbell cameras, or side windows to verify who’s there.
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Require ID and Credentials: Real company representatives will carry identification—and you can always call the company to confirm.
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Watch for Pressure Tactics: If someone insists on payment right now, it’s almost certainly a scam.
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Teach Kids a Safety Script: Have them practice what to say if someone knocks, like: “My parents can’t come to the door right now.”
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Report Suspicious Behavior Immediately: Call the non-emergency line of the Harris County Sheriff's Office or Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office.
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Alert Your HOA or Neighborhood Watch: Some solicitors show up repeatedly and may test multiple homes.
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Know Your Rights: Solicitors Must Follow Local Rules
In unincorporated areas around Lost Creek, legitimate solicitors may need permits to operate. Many HOAs also have "No Soliciting" policies posted at entrances. If someone violates these rules, it's okay to document it (safely) and report them.
Final Word: Make It a Family Conversation
The key to preventing door-to-door scams isn’t just about locks and cameras—it’s about communication. Take 10 minutes this week to sit down with your family and talk about the risks. Empower your children with information and a plan.
Many Lost Creek parents find peace of mind in knowing their children are prepared. While it's not possible to be home every minute, teaching kids how to respond safely when someone knocks at the door helps families feel more secure during the summer months.
Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for updates on local safety issues and neighborhood alerts tailored to your Lost Creek community.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
