Door-to-door canvassing: how can you spot scams?

Source and additional information can be found at masecurite.interieur.gouv.fr

Canvassing: distinguishing the real from the fake

The «real» canvassers are self-employed or attached to a company (VRP: voyageur, représentant et placier), who must be able to prove their identity and profession. The contract signed must also comply with a number of provisions laid down by law (withdrawal period, quotation, terms of payment) in order to be considered valid.
Fake« direct marketers use the pretext of going door-to-door to break into your home in order to scout it for a burglary or steal small valuables. They usually operate in pairs.

If a canvasser turns up at your door, a few simple steps are all it takes. good habits :

If you can, check the number of people present before opening the door (via the videophone or peephole).
Demand the presentation of a professional card.
Do not don't sign anything until you have the estimate in hand.
Do not do not pay any money or sign any cheques, above all backdated.
If in doubt, suggest a‘call the professional body to which the direct seller is attached.
If the seller is insistent or threatening, call us immediately on 17 to involve the police or gendarmerie.

L'abuse of weakness is the act of selling a product or getting someone to sign an estimate by taking advantage of their ignorance or physical or mental weakness. The seller is aware of the person's vulnerability and may go so far as to exert repeated pressure to manipulate the victim in order to obtain his or her consent.
Have you or someone close to you been the victim of fraudulent canvassing leading to abuse of weakness? There are remedies available to contest and cancel the contracts taken out.
You can also file a complaint with the police station or gendarmerie of your choice. The complaint will then be forwarded to the public prosecutor, who will decide what action to take.