Teenagers are selling magazine subscriptions door-to-door in the neighborhood, say residents at E. 2nd by Cortelyou and E. 4th by Caton, in hopes of winning scholarships for college. Be careful because this could be a scam, even though the teenagers themselves may not be aware of that. The elderly have a reputation for being victims of scams, but people of all ages are susceptible--especially if they think they're helping someone.
The Federal Trade Commission warns
Beware of emotional appeals by someone selling door-to-door. For example, the student selling magazine subscriptions using the appeal that your sale will help him/her get a college scholarship or other such rewards. If you buy from a door-to-door salesperson in your home, and the purchase is more than $25, you're protected under the FTC's Cooling-Off Rule. The Rule gives you three days to cancel your order and receive a full refund. The seller must tell you that you have a right to cancel, and give you a summary of your cancellation rights and two copies of the cancellation form. Ask to see the required cancellation notice before you agree to buy. If the salesperson doesn't have it, don't place an order. The company is breaking the law.
If you think you've been involved in a magazine subscription scam, contact your state Attorney General or local consumer protection office.