Be careful with door-to-door sales: How to protect yourself from fraud!

Be careful with door-to-door sales: How to protect yourself from fraud!

The sale of valuables, particularly gold and other valuable investments, involves various risks that consumers should be aware of. When selling, the goods and their value should always be documented with receipts. Missing documents can indicate dubious transactions. Rogue merchants often attempt to process transactions quickly while foregoing traceable records, which puts sellers in an awkward position and can lead them to accept underpriced prices for their goods. Therefore, when shipping to online providers, it is advisable to ensure that the value of the goods is adequately insured in case the package is lost. Before shipping, the dealer should also be checked for seriousness. The North Rhine-Westphalia Consumer Center also strongly advises against door-to-door sales.

Door-to-door sales are still widespread in Germany despite the growing online trade. Trained representatives are often deployed who use the effect of surprise to influence older and single people in particular. In such transactions, comparing prices, services and contracts is difficult because consumers are usually unprepared and can be tempted to make hasty decisions. It is advisable not to allow representatives into your own apartment and to discuss offers in peace with partners or neighbors.

Important information for consumers

Additional offers should always be obtained before signing a contract. Signing on tablets should be avoided, especially if the entire content is not fully visible. Order confirmations should also be read carefully to avoid later discrepancies.

Consumers have a right of cancellation of 14 days for door-to-door contracts. For services, this period begins from the time the contract is concluded, and for goods from the time of receipt. If there is no cancellation policy, the deadline may even be extended. The revocation should be addressed to the contractual partner in writing, ideally as a registered letter. The contract usually includes a cancellation form that can be used for this purpose.

Finally, it is important to exercise caution when selling or purchasing anything of value, including gold. Choosing the right dealer and following the precautions mentioned can help avoid unpleasant experiences and financial losses.