Protect America, a large provider of self-installed home security systems in the U.S, is cautioning homeowners in southern states about home security based door knocking scams.
Protect America, a large provider of self-installed home security systems in the U.S, is cautioning homeowners in southern states about home security based door knocking scams.
Door knocking scams are a common feature of American neighborhoods during the summer. People in Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, Alabama, and Louisiana are warned to be especially vigilant. These scams are expected to hit the southern states in larger than normal numbers as criminals follow companies that engage in legitimate door-to-door sales.
"As a home security company, we feel a responsibility to warn people about this issue," said Mackenzie Kelly, a spokeswoman for Protect America. "People need to feel safe in their homes and neighborhoods and scams like this make that really difficult. To be safe, we're telling people to simply ignore door-to-door sales people."
One of the most common versions of the door knocking scam involves targeting homes with security systems and offering an "upgrade". The end result is a homeowner that has signed a contract that can be difficult to void. Simpler versions of this scam involve obtaining a homeowner's financial and personal information for use later.
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has noticed the problem and has offered advice on their website for spotting potential door knocking scams. One tell-tale sign, according to the FTC, is a salesperson offering a "limited time offer", "upgrade", or "special deal".
Each state is expected to be affected differently. Georgia residents in Atlanta, Columbus, Fort Benning, and surrounding areas will be at most risk in the state. Jackson, Mississippi area homeowners are warned to keep an eye out for this scam as well. People in Birmingham, Alabama should also expect a few knocks on their door this summer. Louisiana will be hit especially hard as New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport will all be affected.
There are a lot of ways to handle summer door knocking scams but the best way is to ignore salespeople when they knock on your door.