“We have been observing the scam in which representatives trick consumers out of thousands of euros by purchasing expensive reprints for years,” says Rebecca Bergmann, lawyer at the Thuringia Consumer Center. “It is usually elderly people who are the target of shady sellers,” says Bergmann.
Like recently in the case of an 84-year-old consumer. During a visit home, a representative urged her to purchase a facsimile called “Demonical Consideration” worth 28,000 euros. During the sales conversation, the woman signed various signatures. However, the legally required model cancellation form had not been given to her. Rebecca Bergmann therefore advised her to cancel the purchase contract due to incomplete cancellation instructions. It also encouraged them to challenge the contract on the grounds of usury. Outcome uncertain.
12,000 euros for registration in the sales database
In times of increasing digitalization and the loss of value of printed books, dubious facsimile dealers are now apparently pursuing new business avenues. “We are currently observing how so-called intermediaries contact the owners of valuable books and encyclopedias either on the phone or in person,” explains Rebecca Bergmann. The goal of the profiteers here too: the wallets of book lovers. They offer to help resell the supposedly valuable books. To do this, they charge a five-figure service fee for arranging and registering the printed works in a sales database.
If consumers are unable to raise this amount, the intermediaries persuade them to take out large loans - and then urge them to take them out on the spot. “We observe this approach both when buying and selling books,” emphasizes Rebecca Bergmann.
“Books and facsimiles are not recommended as investments – consumers should keep this in mind both when buying and reselling,” advises Rebecca Bergmann. They can only very rarely be resold at the price at which they were purchased. “Really valuable facsimiles are not sold at the front door,” says the lawyer.
Consumers should take this into account
- In principle, caution should always be exercised when doing business at the front door. Anyone who was persuaded to buy outside of business premises and regrets it can cancel the contract within 14 days. This period only runs from receipt of the goods.
- If you have not been informed about the right of withdrawal or have only been informed incompletely, the contract can still be withdrawn after the 14 days have expired - but no later than twelve months and 14 days after the conclusion of the contract.
- Consumers who have once made a purchase at their front door using expensive facsimiles or encyclopedias must expect further visits from representatives. Because the dubious intermediaries are obviously well informed about their clientele. “Don’t let these people into your house in the first place,” advises the lawyer.
The Thuringia Consumer Center provides advice on questions and problems relating to facsimiles. Those seeking advice can make an appointment on the central service number (0361) 555 14 0. At www.vzth.de/telefonberatung-th you can also reserve an appointment for telephone advice via callback.
source
Thuringia consumer advice center
Also read: Telephone spam: The tone is becoming increasingly aggressive
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