Police warning as rogue traders seen operating in Caithness
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After reports of bogus callers and rogue tradesmen operating in Caithness, Police Scotland has issued advice to the public.
At the weekend in Wick, an uninvited caller offered to do roofing work that was not needed at the property and had no credentials to show.
In support of the National Trading Standards Scotland 'Shut Out Scammers' campaign, Police Sergeant Jennifer Baughan from the Preventions and Interventions team in Highlands and Islands Division has provided some information to assist in staying safe from bogus callers.
Sgt Baughan said: "We are seeing reports of bogus callers visiting properties across Scotland offering to do maintenance or gardening work. Our message is clear please do not let a bogus caller pressure you into making a decision on the spot."
Please always remember:
• Close the door on bogus callers or if you do not feel safe and if you are not expecting a visitor, then simply do not answer the door.
• Take time before making any decision and do not feel pressurised to do that.
• Get at least three quotes from different companies.
• Verify that the caller is genuine, look at their identification and check with their company. Always shut/lock the door if you decide to call the company to verify things, a genuine caller will not mind you doing this.
• Report suspicious behaviour to @policescotland and scams to @advicedotscot
Find local traders who have been vetted by Trading Standards at the SCOTSS Approved Trader Directory approvedtrader.scot
Sgt Baughan added: "Our team will be visiting supermarkets and local garden centres across the Highlands and Islands to promote safety messages around scams, bogus callers and rogue traders. Please read the information that you pick up there and also if you can, have a look at the below useful links and information."
Useful links to information on the Police Scotland website www.scotland.police.uk/advice.../scams-and-frauds/
Finally, for free localised alerts from key information providers regarding incidents and crime prevention, go to www.neighbourhoodwatchscotland.co.uk and also check #ShutOutScammers
Shut Out Scammers campaign launched to tackle rogue traders and doorstep scams in the Highlands
