ADT Awarded $4 Million, including Punitive Damages, in Lawsuit Against Alder

Company diligently fighting deceptive sales practices in the security industry

  • Jun 04, 2019

ADT announced that the Company was awarded $3 million in compensatory damages and $1 million in punitive damages against Alder Holdings LLC, a Utah-based company.

ADT filed an unfair competition lawsuit against Alder for deceptive sales practices. The jury in the case returned a verdict in favor of ADT, finding that Alder engaged in, and was liable for, deceptive sales practices that misled hundreds of ADT customers. The case was tried in May 2019 in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

“This jury verdict sends a clear message that deceptive sales practices in our industry are neither viable nor tolerable,” said David Smail, ADT Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer. “The few remaining companies that continue to deceive consumers to generate sales undermine the integrity and reputation of the many in the industry that are honest and compete fairly. At ADT, we are not only committed to protecting our customers, but also to continuing efforts to end deceptive sales practices in the security industry overall.”

In line with its commitment to fight deceptive sales practices, ADT has filed multiple lawsuits over recent years against security companies engaged in deceptive practices, and has obtained several permanent injunctions and recovered millions of dollars in settlements. ADT currently has a separate lawsuit pending against Alder for its failure to pay more than $2 million under the terms of a 2017 settlement agreement.

“With the summer-selling season upon us, consumers need to be extra vigilant when any sales representative is at their front door. Unfortunately, the representative may not be telling the truth,” added Smail.

Consumers can learn more about potential scams, especially when a representative is at the front door, by visiting ADT’s resource page. Those who believe they’ve been victimized can call 800.238.2727 or reach out to the Better Business Bureau.

Featured

  • TSA Introduces New $45 Fee Option for Travelers Without REAL ID Starting February 1

    The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced today that it will refer all passengers who do not present an acceptable form of ID and still want to fly an option to pay a $45 fee to use a modernized alternative identity verification system, TSA Confirm.ID, to establish identity at security checkpoints beginning on February 1, 2026. Read Now

  • The Evolution of IP Camera Intelligence

    As the 30th anniversary of the IP camera approaches in 2026, it is worth reflecting on how far we have come. The first network camera, launched in 1996, delivered one frame every 17 seconds—not impressive by today’s standards, but groundbreaking at the time. It did something that no analog system could: transmit video over a standard IP network. Read Now

  • From Surveillance to Intelligence

    Years ago, it would have been significantly more expensive to run an analytic like that — requiring a custom-built solution with burdensome infrastructure demands — but modern edge devices have made it accessible to everyone. It also saves time, which is a critical factor if a missing child is involved. Video compression technology has played a critical role as well. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in video coding standards — including H.263, MPEG formats, and H.264—alongside compression optimization technologies developed by IP video manufacturers to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. The open-source AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media—a consortium including Google, Netflix, Microsoft, Amazon and others — is already the preferred decoder for cloud-based applications, and is quickly becoming the standard for video compression of all types. Read Now

  • Cost: Reactive vs. Proactive Security

    Security breaches often happen despite the availability of tools to prevent them. To combat this problem, the industry is shifting from reactive correction to proactive protection. This article will examine why so many security leaders have realized they must “lead before the breach” – not after. Read Now

  • Achieving Clear Audio

    In today’s ever-changing world of security and risk management, effective communication via an intercom and door entry communication system is a critical communication tool to keep a facility’s staff, visitors and vendors safe. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.