AG Nessel shares warning about deceptive door-to-door sales representatives

ADT has provided tips to help you protect yourself from deceptive sales representatives and door-to-door scammers.

• Use ADT’s credential verification tool to verify the person’s credentials while they’re at your door by entering the representative’s ID number or by going to ADT’s website for an ADT-authorized dealer and select your state to see if the dealer’s name is listed.
• When in doubt about whether a representative was sent by ADT to upgrade or test your system, call 800-ADT-ASAP to verify the work order before you let them into your home.
• Don’t give in to high-pressure sales tactics or crack under the pressure. You have no obligation to buy something “right now” without being fully informed.
• Listen for phrases that deceptive salespeople may use. These are some common phrases that have been used by unscrupulous sales representatives in previous years:
  • “We are here to upgrade your ADT system.”
  • “I’m with the company that manufactured your alarm system.”
  • “ADT just monitors your home; they do not service the equipment.”
  • “Your service will be canceled because another company is taking over ADT.”
  • “ADT is no longer covering your area.”
  • “ADT systems are more vulnerable to burglaries.”

Here are a few general things to know about door-to-door solicitors and what you can do to protect yourself:

• Look to see who is visiting before opening the door. If you don’t recognize the person, don’t open the door. It’s safer to speak to strangers through your door.
• Don’t open your door at odd hours. Solicitors shouldn’t be knocking on your door before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.
• Don’t crack under the pressure. You have no obligation to buy something “right now.” You can ask them to make an appointment to come back when it’s convenient for you.
• Reserve your right to say “no.” The longer you engage in the conversation, the greater the chance you will commit to something. The swift ending of a conversation can stop a crime before it takes place.
• Remember that you are in charge. If you feel intimidated, pressured, or threatened at any time, call 911.

If you think you have been a victim of a deceptive sales scam, you can file a consumer complaint or get additional information by contacting the Michigan Department of Attorney General.