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Home Security scams expected to skyrocket in Utah this summer, BBB says

Posted at 7:16 PM, May 25, 2016
and last updated 2016-05-25 21:16:00-04

SALT LAKE COUNTY, Utah - You buy a home security system to keep you and your loved ones safe. But the people selling you these products may not have your best interest in mind.

The Better Business Bureau of Utah is warning consumers to keep their guard up when confronted with aggressive sales people.

"You can ask for the license and they should also ask for ID. ID that says what company they’re with," said Jane Driggs with Better Business Bureau of Utah.

It's a lesson Jacque, an elderly widow, learned the hard way.

"A gentleman came to the door and I went to the door and he asked me if how I like my alarm system," Jacque recalled.

He told Jacque her security company, ADT, went out of business and he could upgrade system. She was suspicious, but let him inside her home. Days later she called ADT.

"Come to find out, I got on the phone and I called ADT. They were so helpful. No, no, no that isn’t the situation," Jacque said.

These deceptive practices aren't new, but they're happening more often.

BBB of Utah says they've already received 657 complaints this year.

"These complaints from the selling season haven’t even started yet so it’s going to sky rocket," Driggs said.

Driggs said Utah is becoming a hub for some home security companies that use a temporary sales force made up of mostly college students who spend the summer going door-to-door.

"We want them to do the right thing, train people right, get rid of people who are selling dishonestly, and do it quickly. Don’t wait until the end of the summer season," Driggs said.

Do your homework before signing up for a home security system. For more tips on how to protect yourself, click here.