Rogue traders

Rogue traders

I wanted to provide you with an update regarding Fraud (e.g. bogus callers, courier fraud, cyber-crime), which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey.

We would like to make residents aware of an increase in reports relating to rogue traders operating within local communities.

These individuals often go door to door offering services such as roofing repairs, driveway cleaning, gardening, tree work, or other property maintenance. In many cases, they may claim that urgent repairs are needed or even begin work without being asked. They can then demand excessive payments for poor-quality or incomplete work.

To protect yourself, please remember the following advice:

. Do not agree to work from cold callers who arrive unannounced at your door.
. Never feel pressured into making an immediate decision.
. Obtain at least three quotes from reputable, established businesses before committing to any work.
. Ask for identification, references, and proof of insurance.
. Avoid paying large sums of money upfront.
. Be cautious if someone claims that work is urgently required, particularly if they are using scare tactics.
. If in doubt, speak to a trusted family member, friend, or neighbour before agreeing to any work.

Please look out for elderly or vulnerable neighbours who may be more susceptible to these scams and encourage them to seek advice before agreeing to any work.

If you are approached by suspicious traders or believe you have been targeted by a scam, please report the matter to Trading Standards via Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133 or contact the police on 101. If a crime is in progress or you feel threatened, call 999 immediately.

By remaining vigilant and sharing this advice with others, we can help protect our community from fraud and dishonest trading practices.

Kind regards,

Thomas Uttley
Police Community Support Officer (PCSO)
West Mercia Police
Safer Neighbourhood Team
Cuckoo Oak & Ironbridge

People in the UK lost £1.2bn to fraud in 2022, the equivalent of £2,300 every minute, according to bank industry group UK Finance. It said around three million scams took place, with frauds involving payment cards being the most common.

Fraud is when trickery is used to gain a dishonest advantage, which is often financial, over another person. Cybercrime is any criminal act dealing with computers and networks.

To report an incident of cybercrime or fraud and for further information visit the Action Fraud website at www.actionfraud.police.uk. 

If you haven’t already listed Action Fraud as an Information Provider who can send you information and alerts, why not click on the settings button at the bottom of this email, log into your account and update your sharing settings. 

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