Warning of Scammers targeting the elderly and vulnerable

THE following is an urgent message sent via Thames Valley Police’s Country Watch – “It is that time of year again when rogue traders plan and put their scams in action by targeting elderly and vulnerable consumers by purporting to be a legitimate company and persuading a victim, by the use of high pressure selling tactics, to part with large sums of money to have unnecessary work carried out on their property.

“Oxfordshire County Council Trading Standards are appealing for information from anyone who has received a flyer put through their door for gardening, home repairs, roofing, driveways or similar tradesmen. The team would also appreciate a call if you have recently or just been cold called by traders offering to carry out by any of the above services.

“It may be that you know or seen an elderly or vulnerable neighbour having work carried out which is not required and something that does not look quite right, again please contact the Doorstep Crime Team and the team will carry out intelligence enquiries out on the company.

“You can contact the Doorstep Crime Team directly by calling directly on the designated mobile number 07711117455. Your call and information will be treated in the strictest confidence, it can and will remain anonymous.

“It is imperative and the intention of the Doorstep Crime Team working in partnership with Thames Valley Police and other local authorities, to proactively deal with the identified companies in a prompt robust manner.”