Skip to content

Beware of high-pressure sales people

For your own safety, don’t allow or invite anyone you don’t know into your home.
salesman high pressure contract shutterstock_174334952 2016

If you are home or at work, you could at any time encounter a salesperson online, by phone or door-to-door. While some salespersons are honest, some are not and  the chances are that whoever has contact with them could fall victim to a scam. The persons may be selling home improvements, merchandise or cleaning services: Be careful.

High-pressure salespersons- male or female- are charming and friendly. They have inviting smiles. They are successful because they appear, to be honest. These salespersons often want cash. If they say they’ll take a cheque, it will probably only be when banks are open so they can cash it right away, before you have a chance to change your mind or try to stop payment. The salespersons use convincing tactics such as mentioning their business conducting work in your neighbourhood but can’t give you the names of past customers.

For your own safety, don’t allow or invite anyone you don’t know into your home. It is acceptable to tell someone they cannot come in. Tell them you need to discuss this purchase with family, or you are not interested now. Don’t rush into making a decision to purchase. Don’t rely on verbal agreements. Ensure the agreement is in writing with all details and contact information. Tell the salesperson you will get back in touch after you have had a chance to read all material given to you.

Protecting yourself from fraud begins with learning to recognize it. Call phone busters (Canadian Anti-Fraud Call Centre) to report fraud and to learn more ways to protect yourself, your family and friends.