Read and translate the text. Most door–to–door salespeople are honest

Most door–to–door salespeople are honest. They offer products and services consumers may need and want. Some, however, use high–pressure tactics and smooth talk to get you to buy things that you otherwise wouldn’t buy. Once in the door, this type of salesperson won’t take no for an answer and will do almost anything to make the sale.

Some state laws and a Federal Trade Commission rule give con­sumers a “cooling–off” period of three business days after they have signed a contract for over $25 with a door–to–door salesperson. Dur­ing this period, consumers can notify door–to–door sellers in writing that they wish to cancel the contract. The FTC rule also requires door–to–door salespeople to tell their customers about the right to cancel and to put this notice in writing. If the seller does not do this, the consumer may be able to cancel the contract by sending a letter or telegram to the seller.

Consumers should be cautious regarding sales offers made by tele­phone. Many fraudulent schemes are conducted this way. The cooling–off period of three days does not yet apply to telephone sales. Be particularly careful if a telephone salesperson asks for your credit card number. This person may not only fail to send what you order but may also make additional purchases using your credit card number!