REMINDER! Unsolicited Home Security Scams Could Be Coming Straight to Your Door June 23rd, 2017
In a recent blog post, we detailed a warning issued by the Better Business Bureau, alerting consumers to aggressive door-to-door home security system sales scams. And while these scams are a common summer occurrence each year, in 2017 the phony salesmen and misleading sales tactics appear to be more prevalent and widespread than in years past.
In just the last month, news reports from across the country have popped up to let consumers know how to avoid scams and what to look for when answering the door. Take a look at just a few of the headline stories we’ve compiled since our last blog post one month ago:
May 26, 2017 – Home Security Company Agrees to Pay Wyoming $100k in Door-to-Door Sales Settlement, http://trib.com/news/state-and-regional/home-security-company-agrees-to-pay-wyoming-k-in-door/article_6940b888-4010-532d-807f-f00264b13002.html
From the article, “The Wyoming Attorney General’s office came to the agreement with Vivint Inc. after a multi-year review of the company’s door-to-door sales practices, the attorney general’s office announced in a news release Friday.
“After that investigation, the Attorney General alleged that Vivint misrepresented the discounted price of its equipment and installation, failed to provide timely refunds after consumers cancelled within the three-day cancellation period provided by the Consumer Protection Act, and engaged in unlawful door-to-door sales tactics,” according to the office’s website.”
In a recent blog post, we detailed a warning issued by the Better Business Bureau, alerting consumers to aggressive door-to-door home security system sales scams. And while these scams are a common summer occurrence each year, in 2017 the phony salesmen and misleading sales tactics appear to be more prevalent and widespread than in years past.
In just the last month, news reports from across the country have popped up to let consumers know how to avoid scams and what to look for when answering the door. Take a look at just a few of the headline stories we’ve compiled since our last blog post one month ago:
May 26, 2017 – Home Security Door-to-Door Scams on the Rise in Utah, http://fox13now.com/2017/05/26/home-security-door-to-door-scams-on-the-rise-in-utah/
From the article, “The Better Business Bureau of Utah is warning people to keep their guard up so they don’t become a target.
In 2016, the BBB received 2,064 complaints for alarm companies. So far this year, 810 people have lodged complaints.
“They’re up more than 50 percent; It’s an amazing number,” said Jane Driggs, President of BBB of Utah.”
May 29, 2017 – Iowans are Warned to Beware of Summertime Scams, http://www.radioiowa.com/2017/05/29/iowans-are-warned-to-beware-of-summertime-scams/
From the article, “Another door-to-door scam that’s bringing complaints in the region involves home security systems.
“They may say they’re with ADT or Protection One or another well-known company,” Hegarty says. “What we’re learning is, a lot of times, the bad actors use reputable names like ADT just to get a foothold, get in your door and get you to switch contracts and get you engaged in a deal that’s not going to be favorable to you.”
June 5, 2017 – Here’s How to Avoid Scams from Door-to-Door Solicitations, http://www.macon.com/news/business/article154467764.html
From the article, “Home security systems: The BBB often receives complaints about companies that falsely claim to be working with or for your existing security company. Under the pretense of upgrading your contract, they sign you to a new contract with their company. Now you’re committed to having two companies perform the work of one. And getting double billed. Other issues include salespeople who tell you that your current company has gone out of business, or your current system is outdated and is about to stop working.”
May 31, 2017 – Avoiding Door-to-Door Scams, http://foxsanantonio.com/news/local/avoiding-door-to-door-scams
From the article, “Miguel Segura, Regional Director with the Better Business Bureau , says there are a few things you know before someone comes knocking on your door. Watch below:
If you have questions about home security scams or are looking to invest in a home security system for your residence, Fortress Security has over 15 years experience and is here for all your security needs. Give us a call or fill out an online to form to request a free quote today.
