Preston and Lancashire hit with a flurry of new phone and cold calling scams

Lancashire’s trading standards experts are warning Preston and Lancashire residents of several new scams.

Recently, there have been several new reports of cold callers offering repair work and of fake vaccine scam texts continuing to circulate.

Reports have been received of cold callers offering tarmacking work, knocking on doors in rural areas surrounding Garstang.

On two occasions, a small amount of work was agreed, but the traders continued to carry out further work that had not been agreed, asking for payment in the thousands of pounds. Family members and the police were made aware and the money did not change hands.

Residents in Chorley are being warned to be on their guard, as there have been a couple of incidents of cold calling roofers claiming work needs to be done on houses, particularly older residents.

Some instances have seen a price being agreed and then more work being done without the knowledge of the resident, or the price being massively inflated.

A trader should always give written cancellation rights, where it will state an agreement for them to carry out work in the home. Do research, and never feel pressured into making a hurried decision to agree to work.

County Councillor Albert Atkinson, cabinet member for technical services, rural affairs and waste management, said: “At a time where the country has to come together, it’s disappointing to see people trying to take advantage and profit from others.

“We’ll continue to make sure that these attempts for scam services are uncovered as soon as we possibly can.

“Talk to friends or family members and try and keep to local known traders, use recommendation services like our Lancashire Safe Trader Scheme. This service can help you find a trader in your area.”

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To use the Lancashire Safe Trader Scheme, contact 03033331111.

Online and phone scam reports have included a fake text, which has been reported nationally telling people they are eligible to apply for the Covid-19 vaccine.

The text reads ‘we have identified that you are eligible to apply for your vaccine’ and takes you to a link which is an extremely convincing looking fake NHS website asking for personal details and bank details.

As with many scams, this scam preys on peoples vulnerabilities at what is a very stressful and difficult time.

County Councillor Atkinson added: “Remember to be wary of online and telephone scams. If you receive one of these messages, don’t select the link or reply. Just delete or block if possible.”

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