Officials from the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations warned that fraudsters pose as agency staff to hawk fire detectors at inflated prices. The alert appeared on official ministry channels across messaging apps and social networks. Across several regions, residents reported door to door pitches from individuals claiming to be representatives of the ministry, trying to sell devices at premium prices. The warnings emphasize that the public should exercise caution, verify any such claims with official sources, and avoid rushed purchases in exchange for safety equipment. Similar patterns have been observed in North America, where impersonators exploit safety concerns to pressure buyers into overpriced devices.
The ministry states clearly that it does not operate retail sales for fire detectors. Scammers travel through neighborhoods and homes, presenting themselves as public safety officials and offering autonomous sensors at inflated rates. People are urged to ask for official identification, refuse purchases from unfamiliar visitors, and seek devices only from trusted retailers. This routine scam preys on fear around fire risk, so taking time to verify is essential.
Across different regions, there are social programs designed to improve home fire safety for certain households. These schemes may cover free installation and provide guidance on device selection. They target seniors, families with children, people with disabilities, and low income residents. Individuals should contact local social services, housing authorities, or fire safety offices to learn which programs apply and how to enroll. Even when programs exist, residents must be cautious of unofficial offers claiming to provide similar benefits.
For legitimate purchases, consumers should shop in reputable stores or certified marketplaces. Prices vary based on detector type, connectivity, and features such as smart alerts or integration with other security devices. When evaluating options, buyers should compare technical specifications, warranties, and return policies. The emphasis should be on buying from known brands with clear support channels and documented certifications.
Detectors with GSM modules command higher prices but deliver added value. In the event of smoke, these units can push alerts to the homeowner’s mobile device and can automatically notify the local fire department, improving response times. These features suit households seeking proactive safety and remote monitoring, but buyers must verify compatibility with local emergency services and service plans before purchasing.
On November 8, the national postal service issued a warning about fraud involving SMS verification codes. The advisory advises people to treat verification codes as confidential and never share them with anyone who claims to be from an official service. Scammers use code requests to gain access to accounts or mobile services, so users should rely on official channels and never initiate suspicious code requests.
Authorities also urge residents to protect their SIM cards by setting strong PINs and passwords. A secure SIM helps prevent scams that aim to intercept text messages containing verification codes. Users should enable SIM locking, avoid sharing SIM details, and contact their mobile operator if they notice any unusual activity.