The Yolo County District Attorney's Office is warning residents to beware of door-to-door salespeople using high-pressure tactics.
Authorities said they have received several reports recently of salespeople who may be targeting senior communities in the area. They are ignoring clearly posted "no soliciting" signs and a using high-pressure tactics to make sales, according to a District Attorney's Office news release.
In a recent instance at a mobile home park, an 86-year-old woman who is hard of hearing opened her door to an official-looking young man in a yellow uniform who persuaded her to switch from the natural gas service provider she has had for more than 20 years to one based in Texas. Fortunately, authorities said, she checked with her son and was able to cancel the contract within the three-day time period allowed by law.
In another instance, at the same senior community, a door-to-door salesman selling TV service falsely claimed to have the management's permission to solicit sales, according to the news release.
The district attorney advises consumers to be wary of door-to-door salespeople who ignore clearly posted no-soliciting signs and may take advantage of residents' willingness to listen to their pitch.
"We advise you to use your 'peep hole' and do not open the door to people you do not know or expect," District Attorney Jeff Reisig said in a written statement.
He advised residents to keep their doors locked at all times, to verify any license and not to sign contracts without taking time to carefully consider the sales offer and discuss it with family members.
Additional information regarding scams targeting older adults can be obtained by calling the Yolo County District Attorney's Office at (530) 666-8416.
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