Trading Standards are warning residents against doorstep scammers and rogue traders.
The warning comes after a resident in Egerton reported he had been persistently targeted by scammers selling cleaning products.
Doorstep scammers have been known to carry bags filled with cleaning products, claiming to be ex-offenders who are just out of prison and are selling household cleaning products as part of their rehabilitation to help turn their lives around.
Others claim they are ex-soldiers but use the same tactics as the alleged ex-prisoners. Neither the Probation Service nor The Army facilitate such schemes.
Where products are sold and the residents deemed gullible, addresses are passed on to criminals in pubs and prisons with the intention of being burgled later.
Rogue traders are also known to operate in the borough.
Rogue traders will knock on doors unannounced and claim they have noticed damage, before offering to have a look for free as they have just finished a job nearby and have all their equipment with them. Often having links to organised crime, these groups can become persistent and aggressive in obtaining a sale, particularly amongst vulnerable residents.
Victims of rogue traders have found themselves thousands of pounds out of pocket following poor workmanship or no work being carried out at all. This is usually after paying a large amount of cash as a deposit - the rogue traders are never seen again after consumers have parted with their cash.
Cllr Sue Haworth, Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services, said:
“We want residents to be extra vigilant before opening their door to cold callers offering services or household products.
“We advise residents to think carefully before buying products or agreeing to work from traders who tout for work on the doorstep.
“It’s important to do your own research before agreeing to any work. This includes searching for online reviews and checking the business address is legitimate.
“We also ask that you look out for vulnerable neighbours who may be at greater risk from being scammed.
“If you or any of your neighbours appear uncomfortable with traders, we advise contacting the police on 101 or 999 if an emergency.”
To report rogue traders to Trading Standards, call the Citizens Advice consumer service on 03454 040506 or use the online form at www.citizensadvice.org.uk.
Trading Standards advice is to always say no to cold callers.
More information on how to avoid rogue traders can be found at www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer.