(MUNICIPALITY OF NORTH PERTH, ON) On Saturday and Sunday March 2nd and 3rd 2011 Perth County OPP officers in Listowel were called to a number of addresses where residents expressed concerns about door to door sales persons. The areas solicited by the sales persons consisted of apartment buildings housing many elderly people.
It was reported that between 5 and 7 p.m. a couple of males representing an energy company wanted the homeowners to sign a contract for $24.99/month for a “Green Home Planâ€. The plan was apparently to reduce harmful energy effects and contribute to eco-friendly energy, such as wind turbines. A resident was told that credit card benefits were offered by the company for signing up.
The Perth County OPP is continuing to investigate these incidents but at this point is unable to confirm that the actions by the sales persons were fraudulent.
Residents are however reminded that with the weather getting nicer more door to door sales persons can be expected at your homes. Each year numerous calls are received by the police involving these individuals and they often target their victims, especially the elderly, selling products or services that are of little or no value to the client. They are often very pushy and rude and prey on those who are weak or living alone.
OPP SOLUTIONS TO PREVENT FRAUD
Always get at least 3 quotes on any project around the house regardless of the service or product being purchased / sold.
2. Never sign a contract without checking the credibility of the company or person selling the product or service.
3. Elderly persons or those with little business experience should never sign a contract without running it by a trusted family member, friend or neighbour.
4. Never fully open or unlock your door to anyone you don’t know. Talk through a locked or secured door if you don’t know their identity. If you don’t want them at your door tell them to “go awayâ€. If they don’t, call police.
5. Report suspicious persons or activity to police immediately.
There is no magic to preventing fraud. If something sounds too good to be true or seems a little “weird†it probably is. Trust your instincts, not the stranger at your door!