S. WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. – The South Whitehall Township Police Department is warning residents about a possible door to door sales scam targeting neighborhoods in our area, according to a Facebook post from the department.
Two men in a white van with an unknown logo have been knocking on doors, claiming to be from New Jersey, officials state.
Police say they present themselves as part of a small, family-run electronics and home theater business.
The main “salesperson” will show the victim a product list and boxes labeled with QR codes that link to websites which appear legitimate but are believed to either be fake and/or intended to deceive victims.
They claim very high retail values for items (for example: projector $9,499; soundbar $1,699; projector screen $799) then offer a “bundle discount” — e.g., total of $1,200 for all three items.
Officers say victims have been asked to pay via Zelle.
When opened later, the products are not as advertised. They are cheaply made and not meeting the specifications shown.
According to officials, the suspect impersonating a salesperson is described as a white man, around 21 years old, about 6’1″–6’2″, wavy medium length brown hair and gives the name “Robert”.
The suspect driver is described as a black man, in his 40s–50s, name unknown, usually remains in the van, police say.
Both suspects wear blue polo shirts and khakis.
If someone comes to your door, police advise the following:
Do not let them inside. Speak through the door or a window.
Do not scan QR codes or send money. QR codes can link to fraudulent sites and Zelle payments are often hard to reverse.
Ask for business credentials (business card, license, local phone number) — and independently verify (don’t use numbers they provide).
Refuse high pressure offers. Legitimate businesses will accept time to think and provide verifiable contact information.
Take photos of the van, license plate, logo, flyers, product labels, or receipts if safe to do so.
If you paid: contact your bank immediately, report the transaction as fraud, and contact Zelle/customer support. Save receipts/screenshots.
Do not confront suspects.
If you feel threatened, call 911.