How to avoid door-to-door scams

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Door-to-door salespeople are hitting the pavement this Summer more determined than ever. But watch out. While some are legitimate, others will sweep through neighborhoods and leave with your money and no intention of ever sending what you paid for.

"With summer months here they're hitting the pavement, these magazine crews, when they knock on your door you want to make sure that when they knock on your door you know what you're getting yourself into." said Paula Fleming of the Better Business Bureau . (BBB)

Whats even more shocking- some of these salespeople are so slick, consumers aren't even aware that they have purchased several magazine subscriptions, until they receive the bill.

"It's your job, your household, ask the questions to make sure they can answer them." said Fleming

They target anyone and in most cases, make up a sob story so the consumer will feel sorry for them. To help protect you from being scammed this summer, Call 12 for Action recommends you ask to see the sellers permit. In Rhode Island it's the law that all door to door sales people carry one from the town they're selling in. Never invite the magazine seller into your home and know your rights. By law you have three days to cancel any purchase over $25 that was made at your home.

"I answer the door and always it's a sob story. I've heard of this from consumers that call into us and they pull on the heartstrings of homeowners and the people feel it's only $25 i'll give them my credit card just to get them off the door step. But, you don't want to do that." said Fleming.