Beware of Door Knockers!
Summer is in full swing and the scammers are hard at work. Each year around summertime our local community experiences a wave of door-to-door home security salesmen offering empty promises. Many of these salesmen use unscrupulous sales tactics to push their products. Meaning it is important to know the signs of a scam to be able to confidently handle the situation. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has even cautioned homeowners to beware of these security system sales agents. Be sure to know the signs to protect yourself from unwanted door knockers and their unscrupulous tactics.
Know The Signs
Many door-to-door salesmen use scenarios such as the following:
- Your current security system provider has gone out of business and he or she needs you to switch accounts.
- Your security system is out of date and needs to be updated on the spot.
- You do not have a monitored security system and he or she will immediately install one if you are willing to sign a contract.
In some cases, the home security sales agent will target homes with an existing security system. Indicating that the home is monitored by a competitor of the brand. The sales agent will then state that he or she is there to replace or update the homeowner’s current system. In reality, the sales agent is replacing the existing system with a system monitored by another company and get the homeowner to sign a contract. Leaving the homeowner unaware that they have switched security providers.
The tactics don’t stop there. Many of these door-to-door salesmen promise exclusive deals such as free equipment, special rates, and added prizes. Be wary of these ‘exclusive deals’ as they are often unscrupulous tactics to get you to sign an unwanted contract. Leaving you in a contract that is excessively expensive, restrictive, or provides unnecessary services.
Check Their Credibility
Trust is a vital component when choosing who will keep your family safe. It is important to conduct extensive research to ensure the credibility of any company. If a door knocker show’s up on your front porch be sure to ask for their identification. If it is a reliable home security sales agent, not only will the appointment be scheduled in advance, the representative will have a company badge and a clearly marked company vehicle. Second, you observe the right to reject anyone from entering your home. If a door knocker insists on further examination of your security system by entering into your home, deny their request. Finally, before signing any documents you should thoroughly read the fine print and check the credibility of the company the sales agent represents. Remember, you should never sign a contract until you are confident in the credibility, service quality, and integrity of the company.
Fleenor Security Systems prides itself on selling home security in an honorable and dignified manner. Since 1972, we have successfully demonstrated that we are a company you can rely upon. We hire only the best candidates after extensive background checks and training periods. You can recognize Fleenor Security sales agents by either their company I.D. badge or their Fleenor Security marked Vehicle. If a sales agent lacks these forms of identification, decline his offer, and close your door. If you are concerned about the credibility of a sales agent, call Fleenor Security to confirm your appointment.