Beware of Summer Scams

Some people know it is summer by the weather, school is out or the sounds of baseball. I know it is summer because I am already getting calls from our clients about less then honest “summer salesmen” at their door. As Colorado’s premier security provider, Ifeel it is our responsibility to alert our community about an alarming practice that has victimized many in our state as well as other states. Over the past several years Safe Systems and authorities have received a large number of complaints from our loyal customers about door-to-door sales workers using dishonest sales tactics in an attempt to scam homeowners to either switch their Safe Systems’ security system to an out-of-state company or buy a brand new unnecessary security alarm system from their company.

These disreputable security alarm companies employ temporary summer workers to aggressively canvass neighborhoods, selling residential security systems. They have been known to use unethical and dishonest sales tactics meant to mislead and confuse the homeowner. They have proven to target not only people already under contract with other alarm companies, but also the elderly, intimidating them by using the fear of living alone to over-sell unsuspecting seniors.

Safe Systems, wants you to be aware of some of the tactics these summer workers use:

• They will often say that they work for a security system manufacturer.
• They may state that they work for Safe Systems and knock on your door with no appointment.
• They may say they are there to “upgrade” your existing system.
• They may say that your system is no longer compatible with the local police department.
• They may say they are offering only a certain number of “free” systems in your neighborhood.
• They may misrepresent that Safe Systems is “going out of business”.

Exercise caution when entrusting your family’s security. Take the following steps to ensure you always deal with a reputable alarm professional:

• Ask for an ID badge, business card or literature with their company name.
• Call Safe Systems immediately at 303-444-1191 if someone comes to your door to discuss your security system without an appointment. Safe Systems’ technicians will have a company ID badge, wear a Safe Systems’ uniform, and drive a Safe Systems’ company vehicle.

It’s important to report these unethical sales people in order to get them off the streets. If you have been approached by one of these scam artists, please contact your Safe Systems’ Representative or send the report directly to:

The Department of Regulatory Agencies

Attorney General’s Office – Consumer Protection

1525 Sherman Street 7th Floor

Denver, CO 80203

Phone: 1-800-222-4444

Email: stop.fraud@state.co.us