Tulsa Police Warn Of Alarm Company Going Door-To-Door

Lori Fullbright, News On 6

TULSA, Oklahoma -- Tulsa police and the Better Business Bureau have a warning about an alarm company whose salespeople were going door-to-door in Tulsa this weekend and have been in Muskogee this week.

Vivint has a D rating with the BBB.

One man who talked to a Vivint salesperson says they claimed Tulsa police invited them here because of a recent shooting. But, Tulsa police can't endorse any business, so beware.

The BBB says Vivint used to be called APX Alarm Security Solutions, Inc.

A quick search of the Better Business Bureau's website shows there is government action against the company in Arkansas, Oregon and Louisiana. The BBB says more than 1,400 people have filed complaints against the company.

"That many complaints tells you it's not an isolated incident; 1,400 people can't be wrong," Rick Brinkley, with the Better Business Bureau, said.

Viewers told News On 6 Vivint had sales people in a Tulsa neighborhood around 55th and South Lewis over the weekend. One person said the sales people were aggressive and claiming you had to buy right then or you miss out on the great deal.

"Anytime someone is strong arming you, that's a red flag," Rick said. "A legitimate company would give you time to study and do your homework."

Rick says don't sign anything until you read all the fine print. He says the best way to find a reputable company is ask family and friends who they recommend, then check the BBB website.

He says if you want to buy a product or service, do your homework, then call the company you choose, and beware of those who come peddling their wares to your doorstep.

"The only thing between you and a bad deal is your door," he said. "If they start strong arming you and you feel uncomfortable, don't be rude, but, go inside and shut that door."

A Tulsa man who spoke to a Vivint salesperson says that person claimed the BBB was the one actually under investigation. News On 6 could find no proof of that.

They also said they had a D rating because they didn't pay their fee to get a good rating. The BBB says paying to be a member with them has nothing to do with your rating.

Below is a statement from Vivint:

"Our BBB rating is based on previous state actions that resulted during a time of significant growth for the company. With two J.D. Power & Associate awards and two Consumers Digest Best Buy ratings, Vivint is committed to providing excellent products and service. Vivint works hard and fast to resolve all complaints. With more than 500,000 customers throughout North America, 1400 complaints over a three year period is a very small percentage in comparison to our customer base."

In regards to any accusations of improper sales behavior:

"Vivint does not condone any aggressive or misleading sales tactics. We require all representatives of Vivint to carry an ID badge and identification number and encourage any concerned residents to report any wrongdoings to the company immediately."