Door knocks are when an adversary comes knocking where you live to intimidate you or get information. Door knocks aim to intimidate or create paranoia, to see who is willing to talk and possibly be recruited as an informant, and to gather information from the people who do talk.
By logging who you call or visit immediately after they come knocking, the adversary can achieve network mapping.
In many countries, it is easier for the State to carry out door knocks than house raids because door knocks do not require a warrant or legal authorization.
Used in tactics: Deterrence, Incrimination
Mitigations
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Avoiding self-incrimination | When an adversary comes knocking, just don't talk to them — instead, alert your networks and consider making it public. |
| Digital best practices | It is more difficult for an adversary to log who you contact after they come knocking if you use digital best practices. |
Used in repressive operations
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Scintilla | In May 2019, cops knocked on Boba's door under the pretext of giving a verbal notice to another comrade[1]. Once inside, however, they revealed a warrant for Boba's arrest, arrested him, and searched the house. |