Be careful of winter-related scams – Marin Independent Journal

Between inflation and soaring energy prices, everyone’s utility bill is going up. Getting an email, a call or a knock on your door with an offer to cut your utility bill may seem like a great deal. But sometimes those offers are scams. Here’s how to spot and avoid weather-related fraud this winter:

• Be skeptical of products or services that promise drastic savings. Search online for the company or product name with words like “scam” or “complaint.”

• Resist high-pressure door-to-door sales calls for heating systems, windows and other home improvement products. Find a contractor who’s licensed and reputable. Remember that the Cooling-Off Rule gives you three business days to cancel if you sign the contract anywhere other than the contractor’s permanent place of business.

• Anyone who tells you to pay with a gift card, cryptocurrency or by wiring money through companies like Western Union or MoneyGram is a scammer.

More information at marincountyda.org or 415-473-6495