GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Grand Rapids Police Department posted on Facebook Thursday to remind the public of the importance of being vigilant when it comes to door-to-door scams.
GRPD said they've received multiple calls recently about door-to-door solicitors that have been seen entering residential yards without permission or taking photos of homes from the street and the resident's property.
Police said while it's currently unknown if these solicitors were involved in criminal activity, there are important tips for the public to remember when it comes to door-to-door visits.
GRPD said door-to-door scams often include bogus contractor repairs, home inspections, security systems and pest or yard services.
When a resident answers the door, scammers hope to:
- Take the victim's money during visits
- The scammer will accept payment for a low-quality product/service
- The scammer will ask for an upfront payment for a product/service to be delivered later
- The scammer will lock the victim into a service plan that increases in cost over time
- Steal items discreetly while in the victim's home
- Distract residents while another person slips inside and steals from them
- Case homes to help them break in more easily later on
- Obtain personal information such as a Social Security number or bank account number to steal the resident's identity
Even if you converse with the solicitor and the conversation seems legitimate, there are some steps to take to verify their identity before hiring them/making a payment:
- Ask to see their active city business license and confirm the validity with the city licensing department
- All door-to-door solicitors must have a license
- Verify the salesperson's identity through an ID card or by calling the relevant office in your jurisdiction
- Do not rely on office contact information given to you by the solicitor
- Ask the solicitor to leave contracts and other documents with you and tell them you'll get in touch if you're still interested after reviewing them
- Nothing is so urgent you must purchase it right away
- Pressure tactics/immediate deadlines should be a red flag
- Do your research by looking up the company online and in the Better Business Bureau
"It's important to be vigilant because we want our homeowners, our residents and neighbors to feel safe in their neighborhoods and to keep others safe," said GRPD Captain Terry Dixon. "You know, the more people that are out, you know, paying attention to what's going on, the less opportunity to be a victim, for someone else to be a victim."
If a door-to-door solicitor makes you feel uncomfortable, GRPD said to keep all of the materials the solicitor gives you, such as business cards or brochures. Also note the description of the person, the direction they were traveling and, if applicable, their car and license plate number.
GRPD said once you have this information to contact them at (616) 456-3400 or Silent Observer West Michigan at (616) 774-2345.
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