Empowering Consumers
As more people struggle with rising energy prices, people may attempt to exploit the cost of living crisis by providing misleading information about products and services and posting misleading adverts and reviews online.
Trading Standards Scotland and Police Scotland have launched a “Shut out Scammers” campaign, running 25 April - 22 May. The campaign aims to empower consumers with the knowledge to spot a scam, and to encourage the reporting of doorstep crime.
Here are top tips and advice in avoiding rogue traders::
- It is vital to take notes of a companies details if you agree to work being done that goes wrong. If you regret a purchase or service that costs over £42 from a cold caller then you legally have 14 day cancellation rights. For more information on consumer rights visit: www. consumeradvice.scot/knowledge-centre/.
- If you have agreed to a home visit after being cold called ask a neighbour, friend or family member to attend for a second opinion and never feel pressure to make a decision immediately.
- For more information on community safety and crime prevention sign up for Neighbourhood Watch Scotland free alerts here: www.neighbourhoodwatchscotland.co.uk/sign-up-for-alerts/.
In an emergency, report suspicious behaviour to Police Scotland on 101, or 999. Report scams to Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 1646000.