from the Catalina Foothills HOA;
Some neighbors have been contacted by an alarm company called Security Networks, although they don’t identify themselves as such. I have received complaints from those who are customers of ADT Alarm Systems, and others. The Security Networks caller or visitor indicates that they have been authorized by ADT (or whatever your system is) to offer an upgrade to a better and less expensive system. These people may be driving the neighborhood to look for yard signs identifying alarm system customers. They attempt to sign customers to a 5-year contract for their system, which would actually replace ADT or whatever system the customer currently has. An online check of security systems and alarm companies reveals many, many complaints against Security Networks and their techniques. Although they indicate they will arrange for the change in billing from your current company, that apparently doesn’t happen, resulting in a period of double billing. The complaints about this company sound very much like the recent information I received from the Garden District NA in central Tucson about GE Honeywell representatives going door-to-door and pressuring people into buying their service. Last year, the Tucson Citizen did a report on such sales tactics:
In the Citizen article entitled "Door-To-Door Security System Sales Leave Customers Feeling Unsafe:, they give the following tips from the Better Business Bureau:
- Always think safety first. If you're home alone and don't recognize the person, don't open the door. If they are a legitimate company, they will leave a brochure or business card.
- Be aware that because you have a security sign or other type of sign in your yard, you could be a target for this type of unethical selling practices.
- Always, always check with your own security company, or other company, first. You can even ask the sales representative to wait outside while you do. If they are telling the truth, why would they mind waiting?
- Scare tactics may not work on everyone but they can on our senior citizens and others who have no one to turn to for advice. If you believe this type of business practice is happening in your neighborhood, please call the police and let them know. At least there will be a record on file.
- Tell your Neighborhood Watch if there is one established. BBB can come out and speak to your group on this matter and other scams to advise you of the red flags to be aware of.
- Finally, if there will be any changes to your service you will be contacted by your company. You won't hear this information from someone who knocks at your door, and especially someone who tries to scare you. Try and remember the name of the company the person is representing and file a complaint with BBB. Trust and truth in the marketplace is all of our responsibility.
Do not sign any contracts with alarm vendors without doing some investigation first.
