Kosciusko County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office Warns Of Scams
KOSCIUSKO — March 4 through March 10 is National Consumer Protection Week.
“Repair your home and that’s a good thing. Lost dollars on shoddy or nonexistent repairs is a bad thing. National Consumer Protection Week is a time to learn to be a good consumer and not a victim,” said Kosciusko County Prosecutor Daniel Hampton.
According to the Better Business Bureau, “red flags” that will help you spot a scam include cash-only deals, high-pressure sale tactics, high upfront costs and handshake deals without a contract.
“Citizens should be cautious if someone you’ve never seen before says they are working in your neighborhood and claims to have leftover supplies,” said Hampton. “Always ask for references from anyone working on your home and follow up by speaking to other customers or going to see the quality of work performed. Dishonest contractors may be reluctant to tell you who they’ve worked for or become less enthusiastic about your project if they find you’re going to be a smart consumer.”
If you have been scammed or suspect a scam, try to get the “contractor’s” license plate or other identifying information and contact your local police.
Here are several additional ways to help yourself and others:
- The BBB has a Scam Tracker Program where you can report a scam or check one out.
- The BBB also provides a sensible list of 10 steps to avoid scams.
- The Indiana Attorney General has a consumer protection division for filing consumer complaints.
- The U.S. Government has a consumer complaint webpage that provides detailed information to file various consumer complaints.
“Be cautious with your personal information and employ a healthy skepticism to protect yourself,” reminds Hampton.