News release

Avoiding The Scam

Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations (Oct. 2000 - March 2014)

NOTE: This item is part of a feature series entitled Consumer Savvy, produced by Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. Today''s article deals with avoiding scams. Other Consumer Savvy features are available on department’s Web website at
www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/consumer/savvy .


The lure of getting a "bargain basement" price, or getting the "deal of the century" is a temptation some consumers cannot resist.

Passing on these types of deals though, is much healthier for your pocketbook and peace of mind, says Greg Mitchell of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "A good rule of thumb is the old saying: ‘if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.’"

It is a fact of life that there are individuals who will take advantage of unsuspecting consumers. You can protect yourself though, advises Mr. Mitchell. "By following a few simple steps, you can ensure that you are not an easy target for mercenary marketers."

The most effective weapon in the fight against fraud is consumer awareness. There are warning signs to look for. If you see any of them, put your money back in your pocket and walk away.

Watch for pressure tactics. This is especially true if you’re approached at the door, and told that you must act now or the offer won’t be available again. If you fall for this sales tactic, your money may disappear too. Ask the salesperson to make the offer in writing and leave a card, then call back in a few days -- after you’ve asked yourself if you really need the product or service.

It will also give you an opportunity to check out the firm, compare prices and check references. You may find that the prices are not competitive at all. Or, that you have fallen for the promise of a lower price, only to find the quality of work at an all-time low.

The same principles apply if you are contacted by phone. Have the salesperson or individual forward the offer in writing so you can assess it. In addition, this will afford you the opportunity to check out the firm. It is vital to take the time to ask questions, compare prices and check references.

Any time you are asked to give money up front, approach with caution. If a company you are unfamiliar with asks for your credit card or bank account number, and you have not received a product or service, don’t do it.

Watch out for promises of "big prizes." If you are told you have won a fabulous prize, or a large sum of money, but you must pay to claim the prize, or must purchase goods in order to collect your prize –- ignore it. This is known as the "cheap gift pitch." The only thing you will lose with this scheme is your money. Past experience has shown that big cash prizes probably won’t materialize, or the value of the gift received will be much less than the money paid to claim it.

Pay particular attention if you are contacted, and must respond through a 1-900 number. These are often designed to keep you on the line, or keep you calling back for more information, since you are the one paying for the call by the minute.

Before signing anything, or agreeing to purchase a product, take the time to read the fine print. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you are thinking of making a purchase, find out as much as you can about the product or service, and its appropriate price range.

"You don’t have to be a target for the latest scam making the rounds," says Mr. Mitchell. "Use a little caution, a lot of common sense, and you’re on the way to being a satisfied customer."

If you have questions or concerns about a possible scam, contact the nearest Access Nova Scotia centre or call 424-5200 in Metro, or toll free 1-800-670-4357.