AG's Office offers advice on security system sales

During the summer, security system companies hire traveling sales agents to go door to door, making "cold calls" on homeowners.

In some cases, the salespeople use high-pressure or deceptive sales tactics to get potential customers to buy expensive equipment and services that consumers don't need or want.

The Idaho Attorney General's Office advises consumers to avoid sellers who:

* Make a time-limited offer and claim that you need to act now

* Urge you to sign a contract stating the equipment is "free"

* Pressure their way into your home and then refuse to leave

* Use scare tactics such as talking about a rash of supposed local burglaries

* Target homeowners who have signs on their properties for security systems with competitors

* State or imply that they are from your existing security company and that they are there to "upgrade" or "replace" your current security system

* Claim your security company has gone out of business, that they have taken over the accounts or that you have to buy new equipment and sign new contracts.

Consumers or businesses who believe a door-to-door seller has engaged in misleading or deceptive business practices are welcome to file a consumer complaint with the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division. Complaint forms are available at www.ag.idaho.gov or by calling (800) 432-3545.