Security-minded residents are being warned by police and trading standards about cold callers selling home alarm systems.
In recent weeks a number of Surrey residents have received calls asking them to take part in a survey about personal security in the home.
The callers will then try and sell home security products or offer a free burglar alarm.
The salesmen will claim the alarms are free but fail to disclose hidden charges.
Surrey trading standards service is now monitoring some of the companies which generate the most complaints.
Steve Playle, trading standards officer at Surrey County Council, said: “Our advice, as always, is to never deal with cold callers who either telephone or come to your doorstep.”
Mr Playle is recommending anyone looking to install a home security system to research providers, get recommendations from family or friends and ask companies to come out and give a quote.
The website, www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk, also has a list of approved traders.
The phony salesmen have been using a number of different tactics to trick residents, including claiming to be working on behalf of the police or claiming a guaranteed police response to any alarm activation.
Superintendant Colin Green, of Surrey Police, has stated that Surrey Police does not endorse any particular products or companies.
Companies using misleading sales tactics can be reported to Surrey trading standards via Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.
People can also check with the National Approval Council for Security Systems (NACOSS) or the Security Systems & Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB).
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