Bogus tradesmen fraud in Formby
There has been a bogus tradesmen fraud going on in Formby; the following article tells you all about bogus tradesman fraud including how to tell if you are a victim of bogus tradesman fraud, how to protect yourself and what to do if you have been a victim.
Bogus tradesmen, door-to-door sales or doorstep fraud involves fraudsters trying to scam you after knocking at your door. Buying on your doorstep can be convenient. However, a salesman who uses clever tactics can pressure you into buying something you actually don’t want or something that’s poor value for money.
Door-to-door frauds can take many forms, including:
Pressure selling
Unfair contracts
Overpriced or substandard home maintenance or improvements
Phoney consumer surveys
Bogus salespeople will have a false identity or contact information which makes it impossible for you to identify or contact them. If you’ve paid them in advance, you won’t get your money back.
Even if your bank or insurance policy covers any loss, you’ll still have to contend with a damaged credit rating, continued correspondence over a prolonged period to repair the damage and also the emotional distress and anxiety identity theft can cause.
Also, be ensure that you are wary about opening your door to a potential burglar or someone who wants to get inside your property to enable other people to break in. Once they get through your door, fraudulent salespeople can take note of your valuables and any security measures you have in place.
How can you tell if you have been a victim of bogus tradesman fraud?
You’ve bought faulty, overpriced or substandard goods or services from someone knocking at your door.
You’ve paid for these goods or services by credit or debit card.
What action can you take if you have been a victim of bogus tradesman fraud?
Report it to Action Fraud.
You can report the salesperson to the Citizens Advice on 03454 04 05 06 or to your local Trading Standards Authority if you believe they have sold you faulty, inferior or overpriced products or services.
Similarly, you can seek advice from the Citizens Advice Bureau about the terms and conditions of any agreement or contract you may have signed.
Protect yourself from bogus tradesman fraud...
Always ask for identification before letting anyone you don't know into your house.
Check credentials, including a permanent business address and landline telephone number. The mobile phone numbers given on business cards are often pay-as-you-go numbers which are virtually impossible to trace.
Take control by asking the questions. Ask for references from previous customers or to see examples of their work.
Don’t sign on the spot – shop around. Get at least three written quotes to make sure you’re not being ripped off.
If in any doubt, ask the person to leave or call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 03454 04 05 06.
If you’re suspicious, why not ask the salesman if you can take their photograph – on your mobile phone, for example? If the person is legitimate, they probably won’t mind.
