Beware bogus traders and Bitcoin fraud schemes

Trading Standards has received several reports of rogue traders charging too much for repairs.

County Coun. Albert Atkinson, cabinet member for technical services, rural affairs and waste management, said: "There's no limit to what these rogue traders will do, whether it's posing as gasman or charging you a fortune for small or badly done repairs.

"You don't have to buy anything from a cold-caller who knocks on your door. Our advice is to always say no and do your research. Recommendations from friends and family are a good way to find a trader as is our Safe Trader website.

"Our Trading Standards team does a superb job of tackling these companies and helping people who have been targeted. Contact them via our Citizen's Advice Consumer Helpline if you need support."

There have also been reports of online and telephone scams.

One involves callers offering warranties for white goods. Often the callers can be persistent, repeatedly calling the householder and once they have agreed to a warranty, can be targeted by other similar calls. In one case, a man suffering with dementia had given his bank card details to several of these companies, paying around £90 each time. In another case a customer had paid £1,800.

Be wary of telephone scams where the caller states you can claim money back for previously paid investments.

A resident in Clitheroe who had paid out £18,000 for a Bitcoin investment over three years ago received a telephone call from a scam company. The caller claimed they had been ordered by the bank to refund her the investment money. They claimed they needed her bank account details and would also need a payment from her of £2,000.

County Councillor Atkinson added: "Never give your bank details to any of these scammers online or over the phone.

"You should contact the manufactures of white goods yourself, or the retailer you bought from to discuss any warranty. Remember, you will have cancellation rights of 14 days for most contracts agreed over the telephone.

"You should also be careful with investments and only deal with the companies who are registered with the Financial Conduct Authority."

The Safe Trader scheme can help you find a trader in your area, contact 0303 333 1111 or go to www.safetrader.org.uk.

To reduce telesales calls, join the Telephone Preference Service on 03450 700707.

To report any scams or rogue traders, contact Lancashire Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.