LANSING – Michigan residents should be aware of a scam being perpetrated by individuals claiming to be home or business security sales representatives.

There have been reports of individuals showing up at homes and claiming to work for ADT, a contractor hired by ADT, or a company that allegedly purchased ADT. Typically, they will have no uniform or ADT identification. The point of the scam is to get the homeowner to sign up for a new service.

The following tips are provided tips to help you protect yourself from deceptive sales representatives and door-to-door scammers.

Use ADT’s credential verification tool to verify the person’s credentials while they’re at your door by entering the representative's ID number or by going to ADT's website for an ADT-authorized dealer and select your state to see if the dealer’s name is listed.
When in doubt about whether a representative was sent by ADT to upgrade or test your system, call 800-ADT-ASAP to verify the work order before you let them into your home.
  Don’t give in to high-pressure sales tactics or crack under the pressure. You have no obligation to buy something “right now” without being fully informed.
Listen for phrases that deceptive salespeople may use. These are some common phrases that have been used by unscrupulous sales representatives in previous years:
"We are here to upgrade your ADT system."
"I’m with the company that manufactured your alarm system."
"ADT just monitors your home; they do not service the equipment."
"Your service will be canceled because another company is taking over ADT."
"ADT is no longer covering your area."
"ADT systems are more vulnerable to burglaries."

Here are a few general things to know about door-to-door solicitors and what you can do to protect yourself:

Look to see who is visiting before opening the door. If you don’t recognize the person, don’t open the door. It’s safer to speak to strangers through your door.
Don’t open your door at odd hours. Solicitors shouldn’t be knocking on your door before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.
Don’t crack under the pressure. You have no obligation to buy something “right now.” You can ask them to make an appointment to come back when it’s convenient for you.
Reserve your right to say “no.” The longer you engage in the conversation, the greater the chance you will commit to something. The swift ending of a conversation can stop a crime before it takes place.
Remember that you are in charge. If you feel intimidated, pressured, or threatened at any time, call 911.   back...