Three for Thursday 08.11.2022
Welcome to TrustDALE's Three For Thursday with Consumer Investigator Dale Cardwell.
While the media goes crazy and tries to scare us to death over inflation, I'm wondering if you are noticing any examples of shrink-flation? This is a less transparent way to cut costs or pad profit, by making the product smaller so that you are put in a position to buy more of it. One example is making the product visibly smaller. Another method is coloring the container so you can't see the change in the fill level. My favorite (not) is changing the spout or delivery method for toothpaste, or shampoo. I've noticed major brands are making the outlet less efficient so that you waste more than before the change. And for all you newspaper subscribers, how about the Parade magazine insert? Thanks to the escalating cost of paper, it's not much of an insert any longer, but quickly approaching a postage stamp size entertainment leaflet.
Watch this Investigation
Today's investigation - Oversold Mold. Getting a referral from a close family member is not going to protect you from losing thousands on a botched remodel job. Watch, because this could happen to you! And stay tuned for part 2 of this investigation in next week's Three for Thursday!
Ask Dale
Today's Ask Dale question comes from Steve, who wants to know if a door-to-door sales offer is legit.
Click the video for the answer.
Todays Lesson on how to be a Savvy Consumer!
Today's seven-point lesson is on how to deal with a door-to-door salesperson:
Fast - Do they want your money NOW? Immediate payment for a yet to be delivered product is too risky. Immediate payment for a product you get immediately but can't compare is risky as well.
Funds - Is the investment required relevant to the promised payoff? Often, door to door schemes are too good to be true. If it sounds that way, shy away.
Found - A person who intends to rip you off will make certain he can't be found after he gets your money. Don't bet the house on a person who has a lanyard. Snap a pic of his driver's license.
Define - Your deal by comparing product, Offer and Price. This is nearly impossible when you are solicited without prior knowledge. This is why I don't encourage canvasing.
Ensure - Your deal with an Ethical negotiation, an Equitable contract, and an Effective Guarantee. Again, door to door deals happen very quickly. Don't risk an amount of money you're not willing to lose.
Authenticate - Your deal by requesting References, checking reviews, and examining government and watchdog reports. Con artists will often offer fake credentials and testimonials. Do your own homework!
Legitimize - your deal by determining if the company has a business license, liability insurance and is Lawsuit and background checked. Don't take the seller's word for it! Do your homework!
SCAMMERS BEWARE: SEASONED CONSUMER INVESTIGATOR DALE CARDWELL GIVES READERS A GAME PLAN TO AVOID RIP-OFFS