Beware!
You’ve opted to look into home security or have a home security system installed because you value that feeling of safety and protection that comes along with it. At Unlimited Security, we take immense pride in the fact that our residential and home security service helps bring peace of mind to our clients.
There is no shortage of unscrupulous scammers out there looking for someone unaware of their tricks. Learn the tactics and send them packing.
That’s why it’s professionally frustrating and personally heartbreaking that scammers prey upon concerned home and business owners, using scare tactics and unethical sales approaches to trick and mislead. We don’t want to see our clients — or anyone else for that matter — get duped by security scams, so here are a few common scam tactics we hope you’ll be on the look out for:
Surprise Door-to-door Pressure
Reputable home security professionals won’t show up unannounced without scheduling an appointment. But particularly in the summer months, some less scrupulous companies send salespeople on cold-call runs, using pushy practices, act-now claims and unfounded or untrue scare tactics. If someone comes to your door trying to sell security service, claiming that you have to sign up now to get a special deal, or claiming that you need to make a rush decision because of a crime wave on your street, it should perk up your ears. You should always take the time you need and want to do your research and make purchase decisions you’re comfortable with.
Pressure To Come Inside
Door-to-door scammers often try to pressure you to come inside your home, either to discuss their “service” or offer a free “evaluation.” This can be a tactic designed to make you feel pressured enough to rush into a decision, or even worse, the scammer could be casing your house. You shouldn’t ever feel guilty saying “No” when an unexpected salesperson asks to come inside.
“Outdated” System Claims
Scammers often target existing home security customers, making claims that their existing system is about to be obsolete, and that emergency responders soon won’t be responding to it. That’s usually followed up by a rushed offer for a “state of the art” system and a long service contract. Again, scare tactics and pressure. Reputable security companies build their reputation on reliability — we certainly wouldn’t allow clients to use equipment that couldn’t properly do its job.
“We” Show Up With Unannounced “Updates” To Your System
One thing you can always count on: Unlimited Security won’t ever show up at your home unannounced, asking to update or upgrade your system. We “Treat Our Clients Like Family” — and that means communication. We will always make an appointment with you if a technician needs to work on your system. If someone unexpectedly shows up claiming they’re with our company, give us a call; we’re always here to help.
Too-good-to-be-true Deals
Some door-to-door scammers prey on budget-conscious concerns by offering alarm systems for an impossibly low cost — sometimes free — coupled with a long-term contract. Invariably, that too-good-to-be-true system is faulty and inferior, and you’re stuck on the hook with a contract.
These are just a few of the tactics scammers use, and the takeaway, ultimately, is this: You should feel comfortable taking your time, doing your research and getting referrals when you’re making any decision about your home, including signing up for home security. And no reputable security company will try to tell you otherwise.
Unlimited Security is always here to help if you have any questions or concerns about home security — just give us a call at 615-244-9300!