Door-to-door scams

Direct marketing or  Door-to-door scams usually starts when the scammer appears at your door either sell you something or offers to do some type of service.  These frauds.continue to pose a threat to Canadians as these salespeople can use high-pressure tactics and can be aggressive. These people often target seniors and persons who live alone. The common examples of these scams are listed below.

• Furnace Maintenance
• Free home security inspection
• Fence & Deck repair
• Lawn & Tree trimming
• Electric /Utility Company offers
• Driveway repair
• Automobile repair
• Building code violation
• Product sales (Vacuum cleaners, Water or air purification systems, Home alarms, Meat freezer orders, etc.)

Protect Yourself

• Never respond to unsolicited service offers or “free inspections”.
• Ask for photo ID, the name of the person, the name of the company or organization they represent and return next week or ask them to wait outside while you contact their company or employer at their main phone number. Never use the number on the individual’s business card/ID,  use a phone book or go online.
• Never share any personal information or copies of any bills or financial statements.
• If you live alone, never share this information with any unsolicited visitor. Also always keep your doors locked, even while you are home.
• Report suspicious activity to your local law enforcement agency and your neighbors.

Read and understand your rights, look up Consumer Protection Act (CPA) for your province and territory. For more details on CPA  click here