The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is reminding residents to stay cautious as summer brings a rise in door-to-door scams. While recent alerts have focused on phone scams, scammers are now targeting homeowners directly at their doors with schemes designed to pressure, trick, or steal.
Scams to Watch For:
Fraudsters may pose as contractors claiming your roof, driveway, or siding needs urgent repairs, often pushing “today only” deals or leftover materials. Others impersonate utility workers, attempting to gain access to your home under the pretense of checking meters or wiring. Fake charity collectors may solicit immediate cash donations, while magazine or product salespeople collect money for items that never arrive.
Other tactics include phony security system upgrades, free internet or energy “offers,” fake surveys or petitions to gather personal details, package delivery scams requiring payment, and even children or teens soliciting money under false pretenses for school or sports trips.
Protect Yourself:
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Don’t open the door — speak through a locked door or window.
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Never say you’re home alone.
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Ask for official identification and verify directly with the company or agency.
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Never allow strangers inside your home.
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Report suspicious visitors to police and alert neighbors.
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Install peepholes or video doorbells for added security.
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Teach children and seniors these safety steps.
Consumers can track or report scams using BBB’s Scam Tracker at www.bbb.org/scamtracker.
For more information, contact the Better Business Bureau at 419-578-6000 or visit BBB.org.
