DES MOINES, Iowa – As temperatures rise this time of the year, so do the volume of door-to-door sales. While some door-to-door sales opportunities are legitimate, others are purely scams that attempt to solicit money or personal information; causing grief and harm to unsuspecting consumers.
The Better Business Bureau serving Greater Iowa, Quad Cities and Siouxland Region is warning consumers about the potential dangers of doing business with door-to-door sales representatives. The Better Business Bureau gives the following general advice that will help protect consumers from getting scammed by an unethical business.
Consumers should always know who they are dealing with. Be cautious of a business that doesn’t provide a proper mailing address and only has a P.O. Box or phone number. Consumers should also be suspicious of high pressure sales tactics. Never get pushed into making a rushed or snap decision.
Consumers should make sure the business has proper licensing and permits to be soliciting in the area. Most city codes require solicitors to register with the city clerk’s office and show proof of that registration when asked by a prospective consumer.
Consumers should also be weary of a business that claims they are a member of the Better Business Bureau. Some unethical businesses will use this as a ploy to gain the consumers trust. Always check with the Better Business Bureau to see if this business really is a member.
The best way to keep from getting scammed is to check with the Better Business Bureau before doing business with any door-to-door sales representative. Consumers can receive a report on a business by visit our Web site at www.iowa.bbb.org or by calling our office at (515) 243-8137.
The Better Business Bureau serving Greater Iowa, Quad Cities, and Siouxland Region is part of the Council of Better Business Bureau. The Better Business Bureau is a nonprofit organization that strives to promote business integrity and offer consumer protection. For more information call (515) 243-8137 or e-mail info@dm.bbb.org. You can also visit our Web site at www.iowa.bbb.org.
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