Scams increase in summer months, bureau warns

The warm summer months are typically when traveling scammers move into neighborhoods and try to catch unsuspecting consumers off-guard, according to the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Salespersons touting incredible products and services and performers seeking easy heists will likely be showing up on front porches over the next few months, the bureau warns. The home repair industry was the single most-inquired-about industry at the BBB last year. It was also the second most complained about.

The BBB has received reports of many different types of situations:

Devious contractors

Handymen may be unlicensed, uninsured and unqualified to perform the promised tasks, requiring large upfront deposits and then performing poor work or no work at all.

Dishonest installers

Home security technicians scare homeowners into lengthy contracts using home invasion horror stories but fail to disclose the terms; cancelling can be extremely difficult and result in expensive penalties.

Malicious magaziners

Students selling magazine subscriptions may not be aware that they are working for illegitimate organizations; complainants allege being severely overbilled or never receiving issues at all.

Suspicious sob stories

Distressed motorists plea for help after having vehicles break down, asking to use telephones or restrooms, but make quick getaways after pilfering valuables left out in the open.

Though scams of this nature can occur anytime, the busy summer increases the potential for scammers to strike. The BBB offers the following tips to avoid scams:

• Always ask for identification and take the time to verify; legitimate solicitors will be patient and reasonable.
• Never get bullied into a purchase; if a solicitor is pushy or creating an uncomfortable atmosphere, ask him or her to leave immediately.
• Always get every aspect of a sale in writing; thoroughly read contracts to fully understand the transactions.

Victims of fraud are encouraged to file complaints with the Better Business Bureau.