Security Scams To Watch For And Avoid

September 12th, 2023



As a CA homeowner, you take all the necessary steps in order to protect your home and family at all times. However, even with professional home security systems, you may still be susceptible to certain scams.

Today, we will go over some of the more common security scams out there so you can steer clear of them.

Free Equipment

If you are met with the promise of free equipment, a deal that is too good to be true, or other such offers, then it may be a scam with several strings attached. Some providers require people to sign a contract that says they have to pay monthly monitoring fees. Others will sell you faulty equipment or security cameras that are not up to par.

Quick Decisions

If they are demanding that you make a quick decision and telling you that there is a limited time for a deal or discount, the whole thing could be a scam. A home security system is a big investment, so you need to take your time in researching to find exactly what you need.

Scare Tactics

When a company tries to pressure you by using scare tactics, that is another red flag. Some scammers like to make up stories about increased crime rates in your neighborhood or community in Chico.

They can also force their way into your home and stay until you give in and sign their contract. If this happens to you, it is important to stay firm but polite. You can also call the authorities if they become too pushy and refuse to leave.

Existing Home Security Systems

Sometimes, scammers will come to your home and claim that they need to inspect your current security system. However, they will instead get rid of it and replace it with a new one that requires a high monthly fee or other hidden costs.

Pose As A Security Company

There are scammers who will pretend to be from your current security company to gain access to your home and information. They look for people who have security signs in their yards or security stickers on the windows. Then, they knock on the door claiming that the homeowner’s security company sent them over to update their current system, perform maintenance, or upgrade the equipment.

However, once they get inside the home, they install a completely different home security system and throw away your equipment. You will then find yourself stuck with your original contract as well as a new one with the scam company.

Bottom Line

If you are looking for the best home security system for your property, it is important to take your time and do your research. See to it that you work with a reliable company to ensure that you are purchasing top-notch equipment and receiving high-quality service.

Before you fall victim to any one of these home security scams, talk with the experts at your local security company in Chico. We will help you find out what you need to do to better protect yourself and your property.

What Our Customers Say

"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
    Call (530) 327-7268