The elderly are increasingly the target of scammers of all kinds. Indeed, they represent a so-called "easy" prey for malicious people. Often alone and psychologically fragile, seniors are often more sensitive, less suspicious of others and too often find it difficult to say no.
In order to protect you against the scams made by door-to-door canvassers, we are going to present you with a series of practical tips:
If you don't want door-to-door salespeople to abuse your weaknesses, be careful not to give them too many clues about your personal situation. You must remain discreet, for example by indicating only your last name on your mailbox. Other indications, such as the fact that you are widowed, your first name or that you live alone, give "valuable" clues and pressure points to unscrupulous salespeople.
A very important piece of advice is not to rely on the uniform of the canvassers. Some use EDF uniforms, disguise themselves as policemen or plumbers. To be sure of the true identity of an individual who tries to sell you a product or service at home, always ask for an identity card or a professional card, even before opening your door.
Do not let in people who claim to control your agent, titles or assets, or those who claim to have a gift for you. You always have the possibility to call the police if you feel too oppressed by a doorstep seller. Don't be ashamed, law enforcement can remove people who try to take advantage of your weaknesses.
In the event of a visit from canvassers, be careful not to be left alone; many abuses take place because of the loneliness of seniors. If you are accompanied by your child, a neighbor or someone younger than you, the sellers will not necessarily support their argument and will be tempted to flee.
If an appliance breaks down, don't go straight to the first advertisement you find. Often thugs distribute advertisements directly to mailboxes. When you call the listed number, you will fall directly into the trap.
A fake company often sends two "professionals", and when they are at your home, can steal your jewellery, belongings or charge you for a much more serious breakdown.
In order to avoid this type of scam, we advise you - before any intervention - to always ask the professional present for an estimate. They are obliged to present it to you, you are then free to accept or refuse it.
If in doubt about the compliance of the quote, the legality of the company or the veracity of the identity of the individuals who entered your home, remember that you have a withdrawal period of duration of 7 days. So demand a written, signed and dated contract (of the right date!) to benefit from full legal protection.
If you are told that you have won a prize and that you have to pay to receive it, beware this is a scam. If you win a more or less significant gain, you will never have to pay back a sum to receive your dues.
A charity may also be soliciting you for donations, if you do not know it, ask for information to be sent by post. If they refuse, beware. It could be an association of course, but an association of criminals!
When someone calls you and pretends to be your bank, never give them your credit card number, or the numbers that make up your RIB, or any personal information. If you have any doubts, tell the person on the phone that you will go to the bank in due time for this type of check and hang up directly.
Ultimately, if you are in doubt, never sign anything and refuse any payment. Whether on the phone or during a door-to-door canvassing, do not hesitate to hang up or refuse to open your door. Then notify the police, the competent authorities will be able to examine the facts and check whether the people or companies involved are already on file or not for fraud or scams.
Stay safe!
