Last Friday, we wrote about new guidelines for security companies, specifically mentioning door-to-door sales. In the spirit of that theme, we received an e-mail today from a consumer who was taken by a door-to-door salesman selling meat. The consumer paid over $200 by check and the rep hurriedly made his way to his truck and took off. When the consumer picked up the box of meat products to take inside, there was significantly less product in the box than what was paid for. Understandly, the consumer went to their bank to stop the check, but saw the sales rep pulling out of the parking lot after cashing it.

The story is unfortunate in the fact that many people are taken by door-to-door sales because of the high pressure tactics that are used. There is a sense of urgency sometimes that overcomes you when a real person is standing face to face with you telling you how great their product is. The thing to remember is that you have the right to tell the sales rep "NO" or to take their information down and call them back when you have an answer. Sales reps generally make commissions on the products they sell, so returning the next day to a potential client in order to receive payment is something they will most likely do. The other protection consumers have for themselves is the 3 day cooling off period that states a consumer can receive a refund from the in-home sale of a product up to 3 days after the purchase is made.

The consumer mentioned above is well aware of the rule and will be using it to hopefully get their money back. As always, if you hear of a scam like this or any other shady issue in your community, please don't hesitate to file a complaint with your BBB at austin.bbb.org.