Please be aware of the following two trading standards alerts where scams are currently underway in the community:
Police Telephone Impersonation:
We are raising awareness of incidences of telephone calls to residents in Waterlooville and surrounding areas which falsely claim to be from the police. In some cases, to reassure and make the call appear genuine, names of officers, ranks and police station addresses have been quoted.
They raise concerns over the person’s credit card and financial issues. Bank and other personal details are requested to aid security.
This is a criminal scam being investigated by the genuine police who advise anyone receiving similar communication to refrain from giving any details and to end the call immediately. Do get some assistance if a call like this leaves you feeling anxious – telephone the police on 101.
If you have been affected or would like to report information for intelligence purposes, this can also be done on the 101 number.
Drive Jet Washing:
Hampshire Trading Standards are aware of several incidents regarding a company cold calling offering to jet wash and seal driveways. This has been reported in Waterlooville and other areas within the County.
Trading Standards would advise consumers not to agree to work that is instigated as a result of a cold call or via a leaflet drop. Consumers should obtain at least 3 written quotes from reputable businesses or traders who are either members of the Hampshire County Council Trading Standards Buy With Confidence Scheme or a recognised trade association.
Members of the Buy With Confidence scheme are fully audited to ensure their trading practices are legal, honest and fair. All members have been checked for trustworthiness and compliance with consumer protection laws. Details can be obtained by telephoning 01962 833620, emailing buy.with.confidence@hants.gov.uk or via the website http://www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk
Traders who agree work at the home of an individual or at a place other than their usual business premises are required by law to provide consumers with a Notice of Right to Cancel, which gives consumers a 7 day cooling off period. Work should not commence until this period has ended, unless written agreement is obtained from that consumer beforehand.
If anyone has any information about traders who are cold calling or requires any advice on doorstep crime they can contact Hampshire County Council’s Quick Response Team on 01962 833666 (Monday – Friday 0900hrs to 1700hrs) where specially trained officers are on hand to provide advice.
If assistance is required outside of these hours please contact Hampshire Police on their non-urgent number 101 or dial 999 if you feel threatened or intimidated.
Hampshire County Council Trading Standards Service
Montgomery House Monarch Way
Winchester Hampshire SO22 5PW
Tel: 01962 833620
Fax: 01962 833698
E-mail: doorstep.crime@hants.gov.uk
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