Graham, Tom and Ian

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Stockport Council warning on bogus trading standards officer

by Lib Dem team on 6 February, 2015

Stockport Council is advising local residents to beware of a person pretending to be a Trading Standards Officer. Trading Standards have received a report of a man posing as a Trading Standards Officer and visiting residents who have previously been victims of doorstep crime.

The man attempted to persuade the residents that their case has been investigated and that he could assist in obtaining compensation on their behalf, but to do this he would require an upfront fee. In one instance, he was successful and a resident was duped into making a large payment to the man.

Cllr Martin Candler, Executive Member for Communities & Sustainability, said: “Trading Standards staff will never ask residents for any payment in the course of their investigations. We want members of the public to be on their guard and if anybody claiming to be a Trading Standards Officer appears on your doorstep, ask to see their identification.

“If you are in any doubt, then please call the Council on 0161 474 4181 to check if the officer is genuine and do not let them inside your house until you have checked. A genuine officer will not mind waiting while you do so. Residents who have previously been the victim of a doorstep crime, or believe they might have been ripped off in their home, need to be particularly on their guard. The Council is assisting the Police with their investigations and it is hoped that this individual can be swiftly brought before the Courts.”

Similar incidents have been reported elsewhere in the country and it is feared that the man, who carries an official looking identification badge, will strike again. Greater Manchester Police are currently investigating this matter and residents are urged to report to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

   2 Comments

2 Responses

  1. John Bodicoat says:

    Where does the guy get his info from about people who have previously raised complaint? Does he, or has he worked for them?

  2. Karen Sandler says:

    Is there a Trading Standards Officer? I have emailed Stockport Trading Standards twice in the last year about different issues and never received a reply about either. I thought they didn’t exist?

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