In our four part series on scams targeting seniors, we are going to tell you the types of scams to look out for and how to protect yourself against them. In this entry we have identified the third type of common senior scam.
SCAM 3 – DOOR-TO-DOOR SALES
Seniors are frequent victims of door-to-door scams and high-pressure sales tactics. While some door-to-door salespeople are honest, the chances are likely that whoever answers the door is about to be swindled. Con-artists often try to coax seniors into buying unnecessary products or services ranging from living trusts to encyclopedias to household cleaning supplies. They usually appear friendly and appear sincere in their desire to help. In fact, they are successful because they seem so honest.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF:
- Never allow anyone you don’t know into your home. It is easier to close the door on them before they get in than to get them out once they are inside.
- Don’t buy on impulse. Tell the salesperson you will get back in touch with them after you have had a chance to carefully read all the materials given to you.
- Ask to see the salesperson’s credentials and identification and request their business card. Many communities require door-to-door salespersons to have a permit.
- Never give cash up front to a salesperson or rely on verbal promises for delivered goods.
- If you sign a contract, make sure that it is complete, signed and dated. Get all terms in writing, including the total price, warranties, return policy, and all conditions of sale.
- Know that you can get out of a door-to-door sales contract within three business days. According to the FTC’s Cooling Off Rule, you have the right to cancel your contract for a full refund until midnight of the third business day after the sale, provided that you have a signed contract and the sale was over $25. You do not have to have any reason for canceling.
Stay tuned for Part V of this blog entry where we will tell you who to contact if you think you might have been a victim of fraud! Comfort Keepers provides in-home care to seniors and the elderly living in Ocala, Gainesville, and The Villages Florida. We provide superior in-home care to seniors and the elderly throughout Central Florida so they can live enriched independent lifestyles! Call us today at 855-592-0013.
