March 20, 2014. Over the past several days, magazine sellers have been going door-to-door in the Boone area. These sellers have been using a high-pressure sales pitch claiming to raise money for worthy causes. These sellers may claim to live in the area. In reality, they may be a part of traveling groups enticed into the job by false claims of high wages. If it is a scam, the money collected goes to a for-profit company.
According to the North Carolina Attorney General’s Office before purchasing a magazine subscription from someone selling door-to-door, consumers should:
- Only buy magazines from someone you know and trust. Beware of sellers who claim to live in the neighborhood if you don’t recognize them.
- Ask questions before you pay any money. If the seller claims that money will go to a school, hospital, or other worthy group, ask the seller to show you a letter of endorsement from that organization. Better yet, check directly with that organization.
- If you decide to buy anyway, get a receipt that includes refund and contact information, the total cost of each subscription, and the date you’ll receive the magazine.
- Remember your three-day right to cancel. In North Carolina, you have three days to cancel certain purchases such as door-to-door sales even after you sign a contract and pay.
- If you encounter door-to-door sales people that make you suspicious or uncomfortable, please contact the Boone Police Depart at 828-268-6900. If you feel threatened, call 911.