Rogue traders be warned

Rogue traders are being warned to think twice before trying to scam householders in Carmarthenshire.

Trading Standards officers in Carmarthenshire County Council have teamed up with the Neighbourhood Policing Team at Dyfed Powys Police to get ‘One Step Ahead’ of people who cold call on households trying to sell goods or service that are not needed.

In many cases, the sellers use dodgy tricks to con the householder in to buying things they don’t need, or to have repair work done that is shoddy or sometimes even illegal.

They are also urging people to beware of doorstep lenders, or loan sharks – people offering to lend money – as they will more than likely end up being hounded for more money than they ever agreed to pay back for the ‘loan’.

Aled Thomas, Lead Trading Standards Officer, said: “Our ‘One Step Ahead’ campaign is all about helping people have a better understanding of the tricks rogue traders use to try and con innocent people out of money.

“Working together with police allows us to share knowledge and intelligence. We are also sharing our resources to spread the word about rogue traders, dodgy salespeople and doorstep lenders, so our message to any unscrupulous people who may be thinking of cold-calling on people is that we are one step ahead of you.”

The Trading Standards team and police have produced a range of leaflets and posters, as well as items that can be used around the home, including tea towels and mugs, to help remind vulnerable people about cold callers.

Sergeant Darren Moore of the Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Through our community work we are able to gather intelligence, and we use this not only to inform households of local incidents, but also to stop rogue traders in their tracks.

“Our message to members of the public is simple – if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. And our message to rogue traders – we’re watching you.”

Protect yourself from becoming a victim – our top 10 tips:

1. If in doubt, keep them out
2. Always ask for an identity card and look up the organisation to check the salesperson’s identity is correct
3. Don’t get taken in by sales banter and high pressure selling techniques, or sign on the spot for work to be undertaken
4. Think very carefully before you agree to a trader starting any work straight away – talk to someone you trust for a second opinion
5. Always shop around for the best price
6. Read the small print and double check the facts
7. Avoid handing over any money before work is started
8. Trust your instincts – if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
9. It is okay to say no. Remember, it’s your doorstep and your decision. If you feel pressured for any reason, ask the person to leave
10. Finally – report any suspicious activity

For further advice and information, visit http://www.dyfed-powys.police.uk/ or call 101; or email TradingStandards@carmarthenshire.gov.uk or call 01267 234567

Follow #1StepAhead on Twitter @CarmsCouncil and @DyfedPowys for updates and tips on how to protect yourself from becoming a victim.