Be careful, Berlin! Scammers as public utility employees at your door!

Be careful, Berlin! Scammers as public utility employees at your door!

In the last few weeks there have been surprising visits in Berlin and Wuppertal from supposed municipal utilities employees who pretend to be representatives of Stadtwerke Krefeld (SWK). These practice door-to-door sales with the aim of attracting new customers. Many of those affected reported unpleasant experiences that often led to unwanted changes of provider. Berlin Live highlights that a young man dressed as an electrician not only informed about a price increase, but also asked for the customer's address in order to supposedly initiate a reduction in the price of electricity. In fact, this was a representative whose goal was not altruistic.

Consumers report being pressured into signing contracts that they later regretted signing. One citizen described how the representative for SWK used an aggressive sales approach to get him to sign a contract, the contents of which he was not sufficiently informed about. This type of pressure game cannot only be observed in Berlin; SWK representatives are also active in Wuppertal. Many of those approached readily revealed their meter numbers and bank details before they realized who they were actually talking to and how WZ.de notes.

Unauthorized Business Practices and Consumer Warning

The Lower Saxony Consumer Center warns urgently against such unauthorized door-to-door sales. External intermediaries often take advantage of the surprise effect, so that consumers act less cautiously in personal conversations. Too often, false information may be presented in order to persuade the consumer to make a quick transaction. These methods are perceived by many as fraudulent, even if the legal situation cannot always clearly assess this. More on this provides Lower Saxony Consumer Center.

This makes it all the more important for consumers to be careful about unannounced door-to-door sales and not to reveal any personal information. The Krefeld municipal utilities themselves have emphasized that they do not accept unfair practices, but numerous complaints show that not all of their salespeople act seriously. Even if SWK carries out follow-up surveys on customer satisfaction and points out the problem of “black sheep”, the social pressure that consumers are exposed to during such discussions should not be underestimated.

What to do about unwanted contracts?

In the event of an undesirable conclusion of a contract, those affected should act quickly. According to the consumer advice center, consumers have a 14-day right of withdrawal for distance selling transactions, including contracts that were concluded at the front door under pressure. A corresponding sample letter for contesting the contract is also available to those affected. If the provider does not respond to the cancellation, it is advisable to keep a cool head and always keep an eye on your own demands.

In view of the current situation, the consumer advice center reminds you of the importance of making an informed and considered decision. Don't be caught off guard and protect your personal information - a little caution could save you money and hassle!