Red Deer RCMP are warning the public to beware of high-pressure, door-to-door sales tactics from businesses that do not have licences to sell in Red Deer.
RCMP have received numerous complaints recently about door-to-door salespeople trying to sell attachments for water meters.
Some residents say the salespeople claim to have an affiliation with the City of Red Deer. They have requested voided cheques and taken photographs of residents’ water and gas bills. One salesperson wanted to photograph a resident’s tax bill.
Police said the salespeople may have claim to represent companies called Go Green or Eco Global. These businesses do not have a license to sell door to door in Red Deer.
All door-to-door salespeople in Red Deer must carry photo identification and a license issued by the city. When in doubt, call the city’s Inspections & Licensing Department at 403-342-8182.
RCMP recommends several ways people can protect themselves when dealing with salespeople:
- Do not let strangers into your home unless they have displayed all the proper business and City of Red Deer paperwork; even then, it is always your right to refuse to allow them entry.
- Never provide personal information (bank account information, bills, SIN, date of birth, credit card numbers or PIN) at the door or over the phone, unless you have initiated the business relationship.
- Do background research to ensure the business is reputable before giving them any money or any personal information.
- Do not let people at your door pressure you to make an immediate decision – if it’s a legitimate offer, it will still be there tomorrow.
- Be aware that offers of free inspections are usually an attempt to get into your home and are a lead up to a sales pitch, often an aggressive one.
- Do your homework on the topic before you commit to anything. Check other businesses to compare prices.
- If someone is in your home and refuses to leave, call the RCMP complaint line at 403-343-5575.
For more information on business licenses visit www.reddeer.ca. For information on scams and frauds visit www.antifraudcentre.ca.