They’re not peddling vacuum cleaners or encyclopedias anymore, but door-to-door salespeople do still exist. With more people reporting losses of $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024 and 85% of people receiving digital scam attempts, fraudsters are increasingly turning to traditional door-to-door tactics to exploit homeowners’ security concerns.
In fact, during the summer months, some home security companies hire traveling sales agents to go door-to-door, making unsolicited “cold calls” on homeowners, trying to convince them that they need home security systems.
Most of these calls are legitimate, and the salesperson ends up providing the homeowners exactly what they need when it comes to home security.
Unfortunately, there are also many scam artists out there who prey on the insecurities and fears of homeowners, particularly young families and the elderly.
But if you know how to spot home security scams, you can protect yourself, your family, and your home.
Here’s what to watch out for.
Deceptive Sales Tactics
One of the key indicators that you’re dealing with a potential security system scam is the way the final offer is presented. Even a part-time door-to-door salesman working on commission won’t expect you to make a decision immediately, especially about a big purchase or a decision that’s going to require a commitment.
Red Flags of High-Pressure Tactics
If the salesperson is pushing you to make a decision immediately — saying things like, “this sale is only good for a day,” or, “you have to make a decision before I leave” — you might be dealing with a scam. A legitimate salesperson will be willing to come back at a later date of your choosing, and they’ll have no issues giving you their name, phone number, company website, and/or business card.
If they won’t offer you time to do your research, compare prices, and discuss your decision with other members of your family, chances are you aren’t dealing with a legitimate security company.
Modern Scare Tactics
Today’s scammers have updated their playbook with new intimidation methods:
- Using fake crime statistics or mentioning non-existent local break-ins
- Showing alarming (often fabricated) neighborhood crime reports on tablets or phones
- Claiming there’s an immediate security threat that requires urgent action
- Referencing recent news events to create fear about home invasions
When You Already Have a Security System
If you already have a home security system, it’s probably pretty easy to tell what company provides your current system. You might have stickers displayed on your doors or windows, a sign in your yard, or equipment in or outside the home. All of these are targets for home security scams.
Common Existing System Scams
In these cases, a scammer will claim to work for your existing security company and insist that they’re visiting your home to help take care of your account and continue your service. Or, they’ll claim that the company is going out of business, and they need to replace your equipment with the new company’s equipment.
Other scammers will come into your home, look at your existing equipment, and suggest that it’s not adequate to protect against the latest threats against your home and property. They’ll talk about all of the reasons you need to upgrade your system, then offer you a “bargain” for that upgrade.
No matter what they do or say to get you to sign those papers, all you’ll end up with is another bill, and — if you actually let them replace your equipment — lower quality coverage and protection.
Digital and Hybrid Security Scams
Modern home security scams have evolved beyond traditional door-to-door tactics. Today’s fraudsters often combine in-person visits with digital deception:
QR Code Scams — Scammers may show QR codes that supposedly link to your security company’s website or “special offers,” but actually lead to fake sites designed to steal your personal information.
Fake Mobile Apps — After gaining your trust, scammers might direct you to download a “security app” that’s actually malware designed to access your phone’s data or monitor your activities.
Social Media Follow-ups — Some door-to-door scammers research homeowners on social media beforehand, then use personal information (like family member names or recent purchases) to appear more legitimate during their sales pitch.
Contactless Installation Claims — Post-pandemic, some scammers claim to offer “contactless” or “remote” security installations, using this as a selling point while actually providing no real service.
Smart Home Technology Scams
As smart home technology becomes more popular, scammers have adapted their tactics:
Fake Smart Integration — Scammers claim they can integrate your existing smart devices (like Ring doorbells or Nest cameras) with their “advanced” security systems, but instead may compromise your existing devices or steal your smart home login credentials.
IoT Vulnerability Claims — Fraudsters may claim your current smart security devices are vulnerable to hackers and need immediate “security patches” that only they can provide.
Voice Assistant Exploitation — Some scammers demonstrate how they can allegedly “hack” voice assistants like Alexa or Google Home, then sell unnecessary protection services.
Avoiding Home Security Scams
First things first, if you’re in the market for a home security system, do your research online first! As a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to avoid making impulse purchases from any unsolicited door-to-door sales call. But, if you do have a legitimate sales call and you’re interested in it, don’t sign on the dotted line right there on the spot, take your time and make the right decision.
Essential Protection Steps
- Never allow unannounced visitors inside your home
- Ask for multiple forms of identification including photo ID, business card, and employee badge number
- Verify credentials independently by calling the company’s official customer service line
- Research the company online and check Better Business Bureau ratings
- Get everything in writing and read all contract terms carefully
- Take advantage of cooling-off periods — the FTC’s Cooling-Off Rule gives you three business days to cancel contracts signed at home
A legitimate home security company will work with you to ensure that you have the coverage you want and the protection you need. The highest-quality companies know that their products and services sell themselves, and they’ll give you the time you need to come to that conclusion on your own. Take some time to think about the decision and make sure you’ve made the best choice available.
Trust the Professionals at ProTech Security
At ProTech Security, we believe in transparency and building trust through proven results, not high-pressure tactics. With over 40 years of experience serving Northeast Ohio and Central Florida, we’ve built our reputation on honest communication and quality service.
Our Commitment to Legitimate Service
- We schedule all appointments in advance
- Our technicians carry proper identification and credentials
- We provide detailed written estimates with no hidden fees
- We give you time to make informed decisions
- We never use scare tactics or pressure sales techniques
The ProTech Security Advantage includes more than four decades of service and a strong commitment to providing quality, cost-effective protection for homes, businesses, educational institutions and government facilities. We understand that your security decisions are important, and we’re here to help you make the right choice for your specific needs.
Ready for honest, professional security consultation? Contact ProTech Security today and experience the difference that legitimate expertise makes.
