How to Defend Yourself Against Fraud:
A Consumer Alert from ADT

Defend Yourself Against Fraud

ADT is a part of your neighborhood. With more than 200 offices throughout the United States, we live and work in your community. Some of our competitors are very different. They descend on communities during the summer selling security systems door-to-door, at times employing deceptive business practices. After they leave, you're on your own. There may not be a local office to turn to for support and service and, what's worse, your account will likely be sold to another company for monitoring. When these scam artists see the ADT sign in your yard, they may falsely associate themselves with ADT to trick you into switching services.

Knowledge Is Your Best Defense

Follow these tips to prevent sales scams:

• ADT Solutions Advisors or ADT Authorized Dealers will carry proper company-issued identification.
• To confirm a ADT Solutions Advisor is really affiliated with ADT, ask to see their official identification. If they don't show it, don't believe them.
• When in doubt whether ADT or an ADT Authorized Dealer was sent to upgrade or test your alarm system, call 800.ADT.ASAP before you let them in your home.
• Do not sign any documents without a thorough review.

These Phrases Should Set Off Alarm Bells

• Here are some common phrases that unscrupulous sales representatives from other companies use to gain entry into the homes of ADT customers:
  • “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.”
  • “ADT is no longer covering your area.”
  • “Our company just bought ADT.”
  • “ADT is going out of business.”
  • “ADT systems are more vulnerable to burglaries.”

Whatever they try to sell you, check with us first!

If your system is due for an upgrade, we can set you up with the latest technology.

If It Doesn’t Feel Legitimate—Report It

• Post a "no soliciting" sticker on your door. Deny door-to-door sales people access to your home-do NOT allow them to gain entry.
• If you sense that someone is trying to trick you into changing your security provider, immediately report the incident to:
  • ADT by calling 800.238.2727
  • The Better Business Bureau
  • Your local law enforcement
  • Alert your friends and family

You Have Three Business Days to Change Your Mind!

• If you are a victim of fraud, it's important to understand that you can cancel the deal. The Federal Trade Commission's Cooling-Off Rule gives you three business days to cancel the deal if you sign the contract in your home or at a location that is not the seller's permanent place of business. You do not have to give a reason for cancelling your purchase. You have a right to change your mind, even if the equipment has already been installed.
• The salesperson must give you two copies of a cancellation form (one to keep and one to send back) and a copy of your contract. The contract must be dated, show the name and address of the seller, and explain your right to cancel. You may have additional consumer protections under state law. Check with your state attorney general, local consumer protection agency or the Better Business Bureau.

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