Scams and warnings

Help to stop scammers by telling your friends and family and by making us aware of any scams that you have encountered by sending your scam letters to our Freepost address: 'Scamnesty' - Trading Standards, Freepost (CV681) Coventry CV1 1BR. Alternatively telephone Action Fraud, the UK's national fraud reporting centre on 0300 123 2040.

Your actions may help protect others from being targeted by scammers.

Beware of fake goods this Christmas - 14 December 2012

Coventry Trading Standards is warning shoppers looking for a late bargain to avoid being conned into buying counterfeit goods this Christmas following the seizure of counterfeit Obey, Batman, Adidas and Jack Daniels clothing found on sale in Coventry. Fake DVD's have also been seized, some being the latest James Bond Film - Skyfall. Investigations are ongoing.

Use our online reporting form if you have spotted or believe a trader in Coventry is supplying fake goods.

Be a Savvy Christmas and New Year Sales Shopper - 14 December 2012

Make sure you know your consumer rights when buying in the High Street and from home. Follow our ten top tips

Don't get sharked this Christmas - 13 December 2012

People suffering with debt problems should be aware of cold calls from unscrupulous debt management firms. Trading Standards receive many complaints from consumers who are charged high up-front fees, but their debts were not adequately managed or resolved. These companies can be persistent and target people in financial need. Consumers in debt should seek independent advice from their local CAB or National Debtline - 0808 808 4000

Also watch out for Loan Sharks who charge huge rates of interest and use intimidation and violence when consumers fail to pay up on time! Illegal money lenders are not the answer, instead look to a local Credit Union who provide legal loans at reasonable interest rates to see if they can help.

For more information about credit unions in Coventry call: 024 7663 3911 or email: info@cwcda.co.uk.

Warning from Action Fraud about rise in 'cash claw' fraud - 13 December 2012

Coventry Trading Standards is highlighting a warning from Action Fraud following a dramatic rise in cash machine fraud during 2012. Criminals place a device to the ATM so anyone attempting to withdraw cash won't be able to because the device traps the money inside the machine. The machine then goes out of service, the criminal returns, forces open the drawer, bringing the customer's money with it. Customers should immediately report any banknotes undelivered from cash machines to their bank or building society.

Full details can be seen on the Action Fraud website

Scam Alert - Twitter message - 13 December 2012

Coventry Trading Standards are warning Twitter users to be aware of a scam message which is spreading quickly.
The message appears as if it has come from a friend, if you receive it do not click on the link or retweet it. Delete the message and let the person you 'received' it from know that it is likely their account has been compromised and to change their password immediately.

More information on keeping your Twitter account secure can be seen on the Twitter website

Email targeting Gmail users - 13 December 2012

Gmail email account users should be aware of a scam email designed to make users think that their account is about to be shut down unless they verify their account. The message is not from Gmail and if users click on the link they will be taken to a fake Gmail webpage where they will be asked to supply personal details which may be used to hijack the users account to send spam email.

Trading Standards advice is do not click on any links and delete the message.

Rogue Trader Alert - 30 November 2012

Residents in Woodend, Stoke & Foleshill have reported receiving a call from a white male, sometimes accompanied by another white male who use a white unmarked van with ladders on both sides or on the top offering to clean guttering or carry out roofing or general building work.

Residents who have been approached have been asked for money upfront to cover the costs of scaffolding and one resident was offered a lift to their bank to withdraw the cash!

Our advice - do not deal with cold callers as this is a favoured approach used by rogue traders whose sole intention is to extract as much money from their victims as possible. There is also a clear link between rogue traders and distraction burglars.

If anyone is approached in this way or have concerns about traders going door to door in their area please let Trading Standards know by sending us an email with the words 'Rogue Trader Report' in the subject heading to: trading.standards@coventry.gov.uk

Warning over pension 'scammers' - 22 November 2012

Following reports from householders in Westwood Heath and Eastern Green we are warning residents to be aware of a Pension Bonus telephone scam. An 'Urgent' pre-recorded message allegedly from the 'Pension Helpline' tells you that those over 60 are eligible for a pension bonus of £1,000. To claim this you are asked to press 5 or alternatively 9 to unsubscribe. Both local residents took the right course of action and ended the scam call.

Another Pension Scam

Another scam linked to Pensions is a call from someone claiming you can have your pension collected for you.

The caller uses a with-held telephone number and again a pre-recorded message is used stating, or words to the effect of: "As an old age pensioner who may find it difficult to get out of your house. Did you know you are entitled to have your pension collected for you? If you are interested and would like more information, please press 2."

Although we have very little information, we believe these calls have all the hallmarks of a telephone scam aimed at obtaining your personal and financial details.

Our advice is to always act with caution when receiving unsolicited telephone calls, especially if it starts with a recorded message or the number is "with-held". Never provide your personal or bank account details to anybody who cold calls and don't be intimidated into making a quick decision.
And remember; do not be afraid to just end the call by hanging up.

Scam e-mail pretending to be from HMRC - 22 November 2012

Have you received the following or similar e-mail in your inbox recently? Surprise, surprise, it's a scam!

Re: A tax refund of 892.73 GBP. (Still Pending)

Due to invalid account record we were unable to credit your account. Please submit a verified refund request.
Due to the high volume of refunds you must complete the online application. Telephone helpline is unable to assist with this application. In order to process your refund you will need to complete the application form attached to this email. Your refund may take up to 3 weeks to process please make sure you complete the form correctly.

Note: For security reasons, we will record your ip address, the date and time. Deliberate wrong inputs are criminally pursed and indicated.

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) would not inform customers of a tax rebate via email, or invite them to complete an online form to receive a rebate of tax. Do not visit the website contained within such an email or disclose any personal or payment information.

Possible Rogue Trader Report - 22 November 2012

A resident in the upper part of Foleshill reported receiving an unsolicited call at their door from a man who asked about gardening work, block paving and garden clearing etc. He had also called on a number of neighbours as well.

The man did not give any details as to who he was working for but drove a Large White Van with ladders on top. The only contact details was a mobile phone number which was on the side of the van.

Our advice, do not deal with cold callers as this is a favoured approach used by rogue traders whose sole intention is to extract as much money from their victims as possible. There is also a clear link between rogue traders and distraction burglars.

Free 'Samples' can prove very expensive - 22 November 2012

Several residents have reported having had problems when taking up free trials of products advertised in the newspapers or on the internet. However, to receive the free sample you are asked for your card details.

Our advice: check the terms and conditions of any Free Sample offer such as for face creams, cosmetics or health supplements very carefully. The advert may say "free trial" but if you do not read or follow instructions exactly you may end up being liable to pay the full cost of the product. As they have your card details you may also find yourself tied into a contract paying for the goods on a monthly basis until that contract ends.

Often, the company you will be dealing with will not be based in the UK making it more difficult to resolve any complaint.

Cold Calling - Don't Buy It! 14 November 2012

This week is National Consumer Week 2012 and Coventry Trading Standards is urging people to stay safe in their own homes by saying a firm "NO" to cold calling doorstep traders.

Our advice is never to deal with cold callers as this is a favoured approach used by rogue traders whose sole intention is to extract as much money from their victims as possible.

If you are thinking of carrying out any work on your property we would suggest using Coventry's Trusted Trader scheme, which is run in partnership between Age UK Coventry and Trading Standards. Contact: 024 7643 3982 or visit http://www.ageukcoventry.org.uk/

Trading Standards also has a free 'Stop Cold Calling' sticker pack to help deal with the growing problem of unwanted callers at your door. Visit www.coventry.gov.uk/stop-cold-callers for more details.

Scammed by a Car Buyer! 14 November 2012

A local resident who had had not received much interest in a car they had been advertising for 3 weeks in the Auto Trader suddenly received a text from what he thought was a genuine well know company as they used a very similar name offering a cash deal to buy the car at very near to the asking price.
A time and date was arranged for collection, but prior to this, the resident was asked to make a £50 payment by Ukash voucher to cover 'fees' for collection.
Needless to say, no one turned up to purchase the vehicle.
Our Advice - don't get involved with anyone who offers to buy anything you are advertising but they want you to pay a fee before doing so as this has all the hallmarks of a fraud.

Inheritance Scams - 14 November 2012

We continue to receive reports from residents who have received scam letters offering a share of a large inheritance. The latest batch appears to have been sent to residents in the Styvechale area.

The letters are identical and offer a large amount of money because they share the same name as a now deceased business man. See an example of one of these letters. It is expected that a large number of these letters have been posted to local residents across the City with addresses most likely taken straight from telephone directories.

Although a very 'low tech' scam in its approach these letters can feel unnerving or even slightly threatening to some people.

Bogus Penalty Charge Notice email - 14 November 2012

Drivers are warned to beware of bogus penalty charge notice emails which have been sent to thousands of email addresses. The notices, which are crude phishing emails, attempt to get the recipient pay a bogus parking fine by following a link in the email. Those who do risk losing their money and compromising their credit/debit card details.

 

The email mentions the Penalty Charge Notice website. There is more information here: www.penaltychargenotice.co.uk/phishing-email-scams/

 

Trading Standards advises consumers not to open phishing emails and to delete them. If you receive this email do not click on any links and delete the message.

Gumtree fraudulent adverts - properties for rent -14 November 2012

Advance fee fraudsters are now targeting people looking for housing.
Be wary of any adverts offering accommodation where the rent being asked is very reasonable and the accommodation comes with all mod cons etc. If you respond you may get what appears to be a very friendly email from the 'owner' but they will want to know a lot of personal information from you.

Clearly as ever, the message is, if it's too good to be true, it usually is!

Carbon Credits - 24 October 2012

Coventry Trading Standards are aware of residents being cold called about investing in carbon credits. The caller offers an investment in environmental projects for example in China or India.

However we advise that you do not respond to any cold callers or send any money until you have checked out the company and sought independent financial advice because this type of investment is totally unregulated meaning that your money is not protected.

The Financial Services Authority (FSA) have issued some information and advice on carbon credits which can be seen on the FSA Website.

European Health Insurance Card - 24 October 2012

We are again warning consumers to beware of companies offering to make applications for the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which replaced the old E111 in 2006.

A number of companies, based overseas within the European Union, offer to make online applications for the EHIC on behalf of consumers. Often the fees charged are around £15.

Consumers can apply for their EHIC free of charge by contacting the NHS or via the official NHS EHIC website

Your Bank Account Has Been Compromised! Warning - 24 October 2012

Residents should beware of unexpected phone calls from people claiming to be calling from your bank who may claim that your bank card has been used fraudulently and may ask you to key in your PIN number as part of a security check. These calls are bogus. Your bank would never ask for this information.

Phone Calls from the Home Office - 11 October 2012

A local resident has alerted us to a telephone call they received this week from someone claiming to be from the Home Office telling them they had won some money and they wanted to come and see them.

The resident told the caller that they did not believe them and ended the call which was absolutely the right thing to do. A 1471 check revealed a mobile phone number which unfortunately could be anywhere in the World.

The Home Office would never make such calls and it is likely that had the resident continued with the call there would have been a request for a fee which would have to be paid via some kind of money transfer service which are untraceable.

'Loft Inspection' and 'Energy Assessment Survey' Warning - 11 October 2012

Residents in the Coundon & Eastern Green areas have reported the activities of some individuals claiming to be from the 'Government' and visiting homes to carry out a 'compulsory loft inspection' or 'Energy Assessment'.

Whilst there are Government backed loft insulation schemes (visit: http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/ for details), householders should not allow uninvited/unexpected callers to enter their home to carry out any form of check, whether this is for loft insulation or for any other reason.

The caller may have been attempting to sell loft insulation or another service or they may have possibly been trying to carry out a distraction burglary.

If you want to know more about what is available by way of insulation grants contact the Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512 012 or the City Council on 7683 1804.

Fake Debt Help Warning - 11 October 2012

The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) is warning people to beware of bogus telephone calls from people claiming to be CAB debt advisers. The CAB will not make unsolicited telephone calls or texts. For more information visit: http://www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Business advertising - 11 October 2012

Following a report from a Earlsdon based firm, local businesses should be alert to any unsolicited phone calls or e-mails from publishing organisations selling advertising space, often claiming to support 'good causes', such as the emergency services. A demand for payment then follows. The advice is not to make any payment unless you have agreed to the advertising and to check any demand for payment carefully. Where agreements have been made and the business feels they have been misled, please contact Trading Standards. Further information about this topic can be found in our 'Publishing Scams' advice fact sheet.

Businesses warned to beware of 'official' fire safety checks! - 11 October 2012

Warwickshire Trading Standards have alerted us to people with no known fire safety experience are carrying out unexpected 'official' fire safety assessments' at retail and office premises in their area. It has been reported that two males visited a premise claiming to be there to make an assessment of their fire precautions.

Warwickshire Trading Standards suspect that the callers probably represented a fire equipment sales firm and were claiming to be carrying out an 'official fire safety assessment' as a prelude to trying to sell the business fire safety equipment. However, businesses may get the impression that they are from the local Fire Service.

The local Fire Service may visit premises to carry out fire safety assessments, but all Fire Officers will be in uniform and carry an authorisation card.

Businesses requiring information on Fire Safety Assessments or wishing to verify the identity of a visiting Fire Safety Officer should call the West Midland Fire Service on 0845 5000 900.

Nuisance calls and messages - 11 October 2012

Ofcom, the telecoms industry Regulator, has launched a guide about what to do if you get nuisance phone calls, faxes, text messages and e-mail, and if you get silent, scam or abusive calls.

It explains that you can complain to the Information Commissioner if you keep getting recorded messages from organisations asking about claims for personal injury and services from debt management companies.

Ofcom's Consumer guide on Nuisance Calls and Messages

More on stopping nuisance calls. This includes phone numbers of major phone companies you can ring to stop nuisance calls.

Top tips for stopping marketing texts, calls and e-mails.

Watch out for unscrupulous model agencies - 01 October 2012

This warning follows an enquiry from the local BBC Radio Station where a presenter had been offered 35% of £30,000 to be the model in a billboard/calling card advertising campaign.

Payment would be in two parts. Firstly a cheque for £5,000 would be sent which the presenter would deposit into her bank account. From this, the presenter could keep £1,000 with the balance being paid over to cover certain fees and costs such as studio and documentation fees. The 'remainder' of the presenter's fee would then be paid in cash on the day of the photo shoot.

This is a classic Cheque Overpayment Fraud where a fraudster pays more than is expected using a fraudulent or stolen cheque. The innocent party pays in the cheque with the amount appearing in their bank account. They are then asked to send the excess to another party before discovering that the cheque was not genuine.
Not only does the innocent person go unpaid, they also lose money because of the 'excess payment' they have paid to the fraudster.

Cheque overpayment fraud is often used in employment opportunity scams or transactions for goods and services sold through classified adverts.

National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) Ltd advice on the removal of moss - 01 October 2012

Trading Standards have seen a steady rise relating to firms that cold-call, claiming moss needs cleaning from roofs and gutters to prevent damage. Many offer to paint or treat roof tiles with a chemical claiming this improves waterproofing and prevents moss from growing back. However, there is a risk that the use of high-pressure hoses to clean the roof can damage tiles and force water into the roof space.

The National Federation of Roofing Contractors Ltd has also issued an article giving advice about removal of moss on your roof. Click link for details:

http://www.nfrc.co.uk/nfrc/media-centre/nfrc-news-detail/2012/09/07/moss-on-your-roof-advice

Car Clamping Banned and New Appeals Service Launched - 01 October 2012

From the 1st October 2012, the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 prohibits clamping and removal of vehicles parked on private land without lawful authority.

'Lawful authority' applies where specific legislation is in force e.g. the Railways Act 2005 allows for vehicles to be immobilised or removed in certain circumstances from railway station car parks.

The new law will mean the only parking enforcement allowed will be barriers at the entrances and exits of car parks and the issue of civil charges to vehicles which have infringed the rules for using the private land.

Anyone who clamps or immobilises a vehicle or tows it away on private land without specific legal authority will now face criminal proceedings or civil sanctions.

The ban will apply to private land only and will not change existing traffic enforcement by local authorities and police on highways.

The new law also does not prevent the issuing of private parking tickets which could be equivalent to the cost of clamping release fees instead.

For more information visit: www.britishparking.co.uk/public-advice

Popup Scam - 01 October 2012

Be cautious of popup messages that can lock your computer screen. The message is allegedly from the metropolitan police claiming they have put a block on your computer for looking at illegal material. The message asks for a payment of £100 to unblock your computer.

The Police or other agencies would not contact people in this manner or ask for money.

Supermarket e-mail Scam - 01 October 2012

Watch out for e-mails claiming to be from a number of major supermarkets.

The e-mail states that they are collaborating to offer customers an all-in-one shopping voucher giving £15 off. Recipients are instructed to click a link for more information and to download the voucher for printing. A second link in the message supposedly allows recipients to opt out of receiving further such marketing e-mails.

OUR ADVICE: do not open the message or click on any links in the text as this may download a virus to your machine. Delete it without opening it and do not forward the message on.

The message is not a legitimate offer and is not associated with any of the companies named.

The full text of the e-mail can be seen on the Action Fraud Website

E-mails offering Loans - 1 October 2012

Do not respond to unsolicited e-mails offering loans especially if they are asking for personal details and there is no information about the sender contained in the e-mail.

No legitimate finance company would send e-mails offering to make loans without details of the sender. Also watch out for any request for an up-front administration or brokerage fee to arrange loans.

If you receive one of these e-mails our advice is to simply delete it.

Gas Safety - 1 October 2012

If you haven't already serviced your gas fires and central heating boiler, REMEMBER only Gas Safe Registered engineers can fit, fix and service gas appliances. When Gas Safe checked 690 appliances which had been worked on by unregistered gas fitters, 93% had problems. Our advice: Don't take the risk!

For more information or to check with a business is Gas Safe registered visit the Gas Safe Website

Warning on Pushy Memory Foam Mattresses Sales - 01 October 2012

We continue to receive reports from residents who have had cold calls from people offering memory foam mattresses for sale.

They have been knocking on resident's doors stating they have some surplus mattresses which they need to sell. Reports have also stated that they may use the name 'Dreams' but there is absolutely no connection with the Furniture Retail Store of the same name.

Callers are offering mattresses from the back of their vans; they are also stating the mattress is worth over £500.

There have been reports that the trader can be quite insistent and pushy.

Our Advice - don't buy products on the doorstep.

We would also like to remind residents that buying products on the doorstep is risky, as you will probably not be able to contact the trader should something go wrong with the product and there may be safety and hygiene implications regarding the products.

Trading Standards warning on Fraud MOT certificates - 12 September 2012

Do NOT rely on the printed version of the new-style MoT certificates when buying second hand cars as the new-style MoT test certificates can be fraudulently reproduced which can give the impression that a car is road-worthy. There is also a lack of awareness about the fact that paper MoT documents are no longer proof of existence of a valid MoT certificate.

The warning comes after a 38-year-old man was arrested by Cleveland Police on suspicion of forging MoT test certificates. He has been released on bail.

When the new certificates were first implemented in October 2011 they were only intended to be a receipt for the MoT. The actual record and full details are stored online at the VOSA website.

PayPal e-mail "phishing" scam - 12 September 2012

The Trading Standards Team is warning consumers and small businesses, especially those subscribed to PayPal, not to fall victim to an e-mail "phishing" scam. For more information on this please visit the PayPal website.

Scam e-mail from Very, the online clothes supplier - 12 September 2012

Look out for e-mails claiming to be from on-line clothes supplier Very. One offers a £50 voucher in compensation for recent 'system issues' and the second claims you need to re-activate your account. Both e-mails are scams phishing for account and personal details, if you receive one do not click on any links and delete.

Scams using Facebook notifications - 12 September 2012

Look out for e-mails that look like a Facebook notification that a friend has added a new photo of you. The e-mail tells you to view the photo through an attached ZIP file which if opened contains malware which will infect your computer. If you receive a notification from Facebook about photos check on Facebook directly not via the e-mail.

Also look out for posts that look like they have come from friend's walls offering vouchers from well known names like Tesco, IKEA and HMV. If you click on the link it will allow a malicious programme to infect your machine and harvest your Facebook contacts posting the message to your friends looking like it has come from you

Subscription Traps - 12 September 2012

Subscription traps are deceptive devices which work by tricking consumers into signing up to a long-term contract for goods or services. They do so by including a tie-in period or through a commitment on the part of the consumer to take deliveries until they cancel, with refunds not allowed unless goods are faulty. Consumers who are deceived are not aware of a subscription until goods arrive or money is first taken from their account.

Find out more about subscription traps by visiting the OFT's website.

Accommodation Scams - 20 August 2012

With A level results out and students securing university places, we are warning about the potential for fraudsters to target students who are looking for university accommodation.

• Do not send money upfront
• Be especially wary if you are asked to transfer money via money transfer such as Western Union of Money Gram
• Check that the owner is on an approved accommodation list
• Ask for evidence that the property exists and visit the house you intend to rent
• Ask for ID from the Landlord
• Be aware of adverts with no telephone numbers or where the only e-mail address is a free one
• Be cautious on how you send any money & check that your deposit is protected
• Use your common sense - If the property is too cheap and looks fantastic then it's probably too good to be true!

Spam Texts - 20 August 2012

Do you get Spam texts offering to reclaim PPI or offering to make a personal injury claim following an accident or offering you a payday loan?

If you do, DO NOT reply OR text stop! Check out the link below to find out why!

http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/phones/stop-spam-texts

Elderly residents targeted by cold callers! - 20 August 2012

1. An elderly lady in the Tile Hill area was cold called by a male using high pressure sales tactics trying to sell unnecessary mobility aids for as much as £2000.00.

2. We have also had several calls in the last week regarding a company who makes unsolicited telephone calls asking to visit people to discuss certain legal services such as cut price wills, storage of wills, lasting power of attorney and property trusts.

To date we have received calls from resident in the Styvechale, Holbrooks & Coundon areas.

Our concern is that the information they give may be inaccurate which may frighten people into thinking that all their assets will have to be spent on their care and they then claim to offer free advice on how this can be avoided. We are also concerned that their fees may quickly escalate which will need to be paid for there and then.

Residents are reminded that they have rights when buying from salespeople calling at their homes and have a seven-day cooling off period for any agreements made.

Please look out for neighbours and either call the Police on 101 or contact us on 08454 04 05 06 for the assistance.

 

Scam Alert - Telephone scams - 10 August 2012

Trading Standards is warning residents to be alert for telephone scams which are still targeting this area. Recent examples have included:

Computer Fault / Virus Scam: scammers want to access your computer to fix problems they claim are affecting your PC but they want an upfront fee first.

Loans: guaranteed loans but an upfront fee needs to be paid first, usually by Ukash voucher. Once paid the scammers disappear.

Trading Standards advises all residents to be very wary of any offer made during a cold call and not to buy items or commit to services if you are approached this way.

If you receive a scam telephone call you can report it to Action Fraud via their online fraud reporting tool. You can also register with the Telephone Preference Service to cut out some unwanted calls, register via the TPS website or call 0845 070 0707.

Scam Alert - Malicious Olympic 2012 Android App - 10 August 2012

Trading Standards are highlighting the following warning from Action Fraud.

Anti-malware and anti-virus solutions provider Webroot has issued a warning about an Android App called "London Olympics Widget". This app has been found to harvest you contact list, device id (IMEI) and reads your SMS text messages.

Action Fraud advises that not all apps are what they appear to be and to always exercise caution when downloading apps for your Android Device.

The official London 2012 mobile apps can be downloaded from the London 2012 website.

Scam Alert - Olympics doping E-mail - 10 August 2012

Watch out for scam e-mails in circulation about an Olympic doping scandal.

The e-mail claims that Women's Gymnastics All Round Gold Medallist Gabrielle Douglas tested positive, and invites readers to visit a YouTube page via a link in the text. This is a fake page which may infect your machine with malware.

If you receive one of these e-mails, often titled "Huge scandal with the USA Women's Gymnastics Team on the 2012 London Olympics" do not open or forward the message and delete it immediately.

Information Alert - Phishing E-mails - 10 August 2012

E-mails falsely claiming to be a well known company, often high street banks or government agencies, trying to trick people into giving private information that can be used for identity theft or fraud.

More information about scam e-mails can be found on the Action Fraud website. More information about protecting your computer and data can be found on the Get Safe Online website

If you have received a scam e-mail you can forward it to Action Fraud via their online reporting form

Don't fall prey to advert scam - 9 August 2012

Trading Standards are warning of an advertising scam aimed at small businesses.

The techniques being used by scammers claiming to provide advertising space in publications are: cold calling, using the name of a genuine business, claiming to have links with public bodies or charities, asking for immediate up front payment, offering discounts for agreeing to buy on the day, using a direct debit system to take more than agreed and signing the business up to a long-term and costly contract.

Our Advice: never to agree to pay money to an advertiser that you have not previously dealt with especially if they cannot provide proof of business or provide you with copies of their previous publications so that you can check them out.

Trading Standards warning on PPI - 9 August 2012

We continue to receive reports from local residents who have been contacted by various firms offering to help reclaim mis-sold Payment Protection Insurance (PPI).

In most cases you can do this yourself without having to employ a company to do it for you and by cutting out the middleman you could save yourself being charged 25% to 30% of what you claim. This could be as much as £750 if you are due £3000.

Our Advice: Search the Internet for free information and step by step guides telling you how to reclaim mis-sold PPI before considering employing a firm who will charge commission or an upfront fee.

Foam mattresses being offered for sale again from the back of a van - 3 August 2012

It appears that the door to door Mattress Seller that we warned about in August & October last year may be back in the City. A retired couple in the Allesley area had a visit from a man offering for sale a 'Dreams' memory foam mattress. Dreams have confirmed that they would never offer for sale one of their products via an unsolicited visit to your door.

Our main concern here is that the item could be stolen or unsafe despite having the correct safety labels - they may be fake.

Council Tax 're-banding' - 3 August 2012

We have also had reports of someone going door to door in the Earlsdon area offering a service to see if they can reduce your council tax bill by having your home re-banded.

We have no details of who this person is at this stage; they could be from a firm who offer such services for a fee or they could be out to obtain personal details for their own financial gain.

If you feel your home is in the wrong band there is lots of FREE information available on the Internet on how to go about this.

Our advice - never deal with cold callers as this is a favoured approach used by rogue traders whose sole intention is to extract as much money as possible.

Postage Stamps - 11 July 2012

We have been made aware of some shops selling postage stamps for more than the amount charged at the Post Office.

The Royal Mail have an agreement with retailers that they supply with stamps, that the stamps must be sold at or below the Royal Mail's current published tariff price.

The Royal Mail takes any reports of retailers overcharging for stamps very seriously.

If you have been sold or offered stamps at above the Royal Mail tariff price please report it to Royal Mail, including the the name and address of the shop involved.

Royal Mail
Tallents House
21 South Gyle Crescent
Edinburgh
EH12 9PB
E-mail: business.enquiries@royalmail.com
Telephone: 08457 640640

Investment Warning - 11 July 2012

The Financial Services Authority (FSA) have issued a warning in order to advise investors against dealing with unauthorised firms.

If you are an investor, you should be aware that the Financial Ombudsman Service and the Financial Services Compensation Scheme are not available if you deal with an unauthorised firm or individual. To find out whether a firm or individual is authorised, go to the FSA Register at http://www.fsa.gov.uk/register/home.do

Scam PPI Calls - 6 July 2012

Colleagues from Staffordshire have issued the following Scam warning after receiving a number of enquiries, often from vulnerable consumers, who have been contacted by phone asking whether they want to submit a claim for missold PPI. The caller will usually state that they are calling from a claims management business or from a government body such as the MOJ (Ministry of Justice) or OFT and will mislead consumers into thinking that they are guaranteed a sum of money. They are told all the have to do is send money in the form of UKash vouchers to cover an admin fee.

The Ministry of Justice has issued a press release which can be found at http://www.justice.gov.uk/news/press-releases/moj/warning-on-scam-calls

Any one who receives such a call is advised to report the matter to Action Fraud at http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/report-a-fraud/how-to-report-a-fraud.

Car selling scam - 4 July 2012

When selling your vehicle or for that matter when selling anything, be aware that thieves can pose as potential buyers. Some may ask for your personal details which could be used for fraudulent purposes whilst others agree to pay the full asking price, no questions asked and will send you a cheque which may be for more than the asking price. The explanation given is that this is a mistake or it is to cover 'shipping costs as they are unable to collect the item in person.

The seller pays in the cheque and it appears to 'clear' and believing that the funds have been transferred into their account the seller transfers the 'Overpayment' back to the buyer via Western Union money transfer or makes arrangements with a fictitious shipper.

Days later the Seller bank informs them that the cheque was stolen and will not be honoured. The cheque amount is removed from the seller's account leaving them out-of-pocket to the value of the 'Overpayment'.

Banks are tightening up on this and new Regulations have been introduced to speed up the process of completing the clearing process which should take 6 days but in the meantime this still leaves people at risk.

This scam relies on the misconception of 'cleared funds' which gives the impression that you have received money when in fact you haven't.

Fake e-mails from friends 4 July 2012

Consumers receive what appears to be an e-mail from someone they know, but it's really a scam to get you to transfer money to a crook. The e-mails are usually titled 'I need your help' or 'I'm in trouble' and seem to come from the e-mail address of someone you know. The message usually says they are abroad, have been a victim of a mugging or lost their wallet and need a 'loan' to get home. The senders e-mail account (your friend) will have been hacked into by a cyber criminal. The e-mails are sent to all their contacts.

Our Advice: Be suspicious of anyone asking for money through the internet, even if the request appears to be from a friend. Speak to your friend directly or ask other mutual friends to see if they also have received the same e-mail.

Free Carpet Clean may not be what is says it is? - 4 July 2012

Local Police have alerted us to a company that is calling on residents handing out draw tickets for a £1,000 prize; all that is needed to enter is the householder's telephone number. The resident then receives a call telling them that they have not won the main prize but have won the opportunity to have a carpet shampooed free of charge. What the resident isn't told at any stage is that as a result of accepting the free offer there will also be a sales pitch to try to sell them a Home Care Cleaning system costing almost £2,500. Consumers may then face a long session of demonstrations and hard-sell tactics in their home, as well as further sales attempts by phone.

Trading Standards advises that unless residents really want an expensive cleaning system they should not accept the offer of a free carpet clean, since it is easy to say yes to an unwanted product once a salesperson is in your home.

Scam Alert - DVLA e-mail - 4 July 2012

Watch out for a scam e-mail in circulation claiming to be from the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). The e-mail states that the DVLA are 'updating our database' and asks drivers to verify their personal details via an online link. It goes on to state that anyone not completing this task will 'lose his or her driver's licence and will have to take a fresh driving test'.

The DVLA, along with all other government agencies, will never ask you to provide or update personal details by e-mail. If you receive one of these e-mails you should delete it immediately.

Microsoft PC Virus Scam continues but with a new twist! - 20 June 2012

We continue to receive reports regarding phone calls from people falsely claiming to be from Microsoft. [See alert issued 16/01/12 below].

This week another resident received a similar call and was advised that their Microsoft licence has not been renewed and unless a payment of £145 was made the PC user faced a £3000 fine and the PC would also be wiped of all information including irreplaceable family photographs.

The caller was extremely persistent, calling numerous times over a 3 hour period. Payment was to be made via the online 'Pay Aware' site but fortunately the resident did not put in their correct password so payment was refused.

The caller became verbally aggressive; giving the resident 20 minutes to arrange payment.

The resident sought advice and contacted their bank who arranged for the immediate cancellation of the card and they would monitor future transactions.

When the caller rang back the resident told him that he was a scammer. The caller just laughed and said he was just about to 'clear their account'.

Due to the residents quick actions this did not happen.

The resident thought this was the end of the matter but there was a message on their answer machine from an Indian sounding lady claiming to be from Microsoft Legal Dept. She wanted to discuss the refusal to renew a licence which meant they now faced a £3000 fine.

No further calls have been made.

Warning of rogue traders in Coventry - 20 June 2012

City residents are being warned following a number of complaints relating to rogue traders who have been going door to door.

With the onset of better weather, homeowner's thoughts may turn towards maintenance of their property and it is during this time of that rogue businesses will target homes offering to carry out such work as gardening, roof and gutter repairs, cleaning and painting roofs, jet wash or re-paving driveways etc.

Rogue traders often use intimidating or aggressive practices, overcharge and give misleading statements about their work leaving homeowners with poor quality work and out of pocket facing more bills to put problems right.

Our advice is never to deal with cold callers as this is the favoured approach used by rogue traders whose sole intention is to extract as much money from their victims as possible.

If you do need work carrying out on your property remember the Trusted Traders Scheme, a partnership between Coventry Trading Standards and Age UK Coventry. The scheme is not designed to approve trades people but all members are vetted and agree to abide by a code of practice. This service is available to people of all ages living in the Coventry area. For more information contact the Trusted Traders service on 024 76433982.

Scams and caring for others - 24 May 2012

Scams often target vulnerable or disadvantaged consumers. The elderly are often hit hardest as they can be over trusting or suffering from illnesses such as dementia. Many lose their life savings, get into debt or develop health problems. During Scams Awareness Month we are asking those who care for an elderly or vulnerable person, to look out for warning signs: are they receiving a lot of junk mail or phone calls from strangers, or have they become secretive when discussing finances?
For more information visit the Think Jessica website: http://www.thinkjessica.com/

Courier Bank Card Scam - 24 May 2012

There have been renewed reports of an old-style phone scam where fraudsters dupe unsuspecting cardholders into handing over their card and revealing their PIN by pretending to be from their bank, Card Company, or even the police. It is estimated that this scam will net fraudsters £1.5m this year.
The scam begins with the fraudster phoning up, typically claiming to be from the security or fraud department of the victim's bank. They say they have noticed possible fraudulent transactions on the card and by seeming to offer assistance; the fraudster hopes to gain the victim's trust.
The fraudster asks the victim to write down their PIN - and place it in an envelope with their card - telling the victim that they will send a courier to collect it. The fraudster hires a genuine courier who is an unwitting pawn in the scam who collects the envelope and delivers it to the fraudster, who uses the card and PIN to withdraw money from cash machines.
The scam can easily stopped:
Never share your PIN with anyone (including the police or your bank). They will never ask you for your PIN.
Be wary of unsolicited phone calls claiming to be from your bank or card company. If in doubt, call your bank using a known number such as one obtained from your most recent statement.

Fake loans can cost thousands in on-line scam - 24 May 2012

People searching for online loans should watch out after Trading Standards received a report of a consumer who paid various fees amounting to over £3,000 via Western Union transfer before realising it was a scam!
After completing an online application for a £9,000.00 loan, the 'loan' firm telephoned asking for an upfront administration charge which had to be paid through Western Union. Further fees were then demanded for the loan to be processed and in the end over £3500 was paid.
Our Advice: Don't transfer money to loan companies using money transfer services such as UKASH or Western Union and research the business offering the loan. Look for correct phone numbers and physical addresses and ask for information in writing before agreeing to pay anything.
Don't go ahead with any loan if a company demands a fee before you get the money and be cautious if a loan company cold-calls you asking for your bank details. REMEMBER: if a deal sounds too good to be true, it normally is.
If you have been a victim of this scam act fast to block any payment by contacting UKASH on 0808 234 6244.

May in National Scams Awareness Month - 4 May 2012

If you have ever received a lottery or prize draw 'winners' letter for a competition you haven't entered or an offer from a mystic clairvoyant to change your fortunes, (for just a few pounds), then you are one of the many thousands of people targeted each week by mass marketing scams.

May is National Scams Awareness Month and we are inviting local residents and businesses to forward any potential scam letters, e-mails or phone calls to them at the following FREEPOST address: Scamnesty 2012, Trading Standards, Freepost (CV681) Coventry CV1 1BR. Alternatively you can hand any scam letters into Coventry Citizens Advice Bureau at Kirby House.

All information will be recorded and used to investigate the scale of the problem both in Coventry and across the country.

You can find more information here about scams and what to do to avoid them.

Be alert for a possible security alarm scam - 3 May 2012

We have received reports involving unsolicited telephone calls from companies offering to install security systems for free or at a nominal cost. However, associated with this is a non optional monthly maintenance contract which costs several thousands of pounds. Anyone who receives such a call should let us know and we would suggest that you do not agree or sign anything until you have had the opportunity to check the written contract thoroughly or have sought advice from us.

Fake 2012 Summer Olympic Lottery - 16 April 2012

Watch out for a letter claiming to be from the 2012 Summer Olympic Lottery informing you that you have been successful in a prize draw. You can view a copy of a letter. This is very similar to other lottery scams and will use false names and addresses, usually of large office blocks, and the scammer will have bought an '0207' telephone numbers to give the impression they are based in London when they are probably somewhere in Africa.

Any Olympic-branded lottery letters are almost certainly going to be bogus so our advice is not to respond to it.

UK Government Refund Department - 16 April 2012

Another scam linked to a Lottery involves a telephone call from someone claiming to be from the UK Govt Refund Dept. who will tell you that you have won some money on a lottery. However, to get your 'winnings' a £400 tax paid via Western Union has to be made first. Again, this is clearly a scam.

Gas and Electric Telephone Scam - 16 April 2012

Beware of phone calls where the caller offers to be able to get cheaper gas and electricity but requires an upfront payment to join the scheme. The caller will ask for credit card/bank account details and may even have certain personal details such as your postcode etc. Our Advice - Never give out bank account details over the phone, and to never reveal personal information to unknown callers.

Bogus Council officials - 26 March 2012

Trading Standards are asking residents to be alert after receiving a report involving bogus council workers who visited a home in Coundon. The two men gave the impression that they were working for the Council and offered to clear accumulated garden rubbish claiming that if the rubbish remained the Council would fine them £1,500. Instead they offered to do the job for £300.

City Council officials would not cold call to discuss such matters but can serve a 21 day written notice asking for the removal of refuse which is likely to attract vermin e.g. cardboard, food waste, mattresses, sofa's, cushions etc.

Please do not allow unexpected callers claiming to be officials into your home without first checking who they are by contacting the organisation they claim to be from but remember, never use any number they provide to check authenticity.

Our advice - never deal with cold callers as this is a favoured approach used by rogue traders whose sole intention is to extract as much money from their victims as possible.

Fake e-mails from friends - 26 March 2012

Consumers receive what appears to be an e-mail from someone they know, but it's really a scam to get you to transfer money to a crook. The e-mails are usually titled 'I need your help' or 'I'm in trouble' and seem to come from the e-mail address of someone you know. The message usually says they are abroad, have been a victim of a mugging or lost their wallet and need a 'loan' to get home. The senders e-mail account (your friend) will have been hacked into by a cyber criminal. The e-mails are sent to all their contacts.

If it's your e-mail account that has been hacked into in this way, contact your e-mail service provider who will be able to restore your e-mail address for you.

Loan Payment Protection Insurance (PPI) - 26 March 2012

People continue to report receiving phone calls with the promise that they are owed significant sums of money in relation to a loan taken out previously. The fraudsters are very convincing and often have the person's name and address details when they call.

Residents are asked to buy a UK Credit Voucher or UKASH Voucher for £200, to cover an admin fee and once this has been paid, a lawyer will then visit them with the cash payment from the PPI Scheme. The scammer then calls back asking for the UKASH voucher number and once they have this they 'cash-in' the voucher online and the resident never sees the lawyer or the 'refunded' PPI money.

Trading Standards advice is that if you receive such an unsolicited phone call then do not divulge any personal information. The best thing to do is to hang up the phone.

Various telephone scams - 24 February 2012

We have received a number of calls from concerned residents relating to various telephone scams. All of the calls involve a request to transfer money with the promise of a larger sum to follow once they have received your funds.

Residents have been asked to purchase Ukash vouchers after being told that they have won the 'World Lotto' and before any money can be released a tax has to be paid via Ukash. Others have received calls claiming to be from the Ministry of Justice, who state that before a refund or an award can be hand delivered to the caller's home, a payment for the courier service has to be paid first.

In all of these calls certain personal details were known by the caller.

Our Advice - never respond to anything which demands you hand over cash before claiming funds no matter the reason given. Genuine refunds will be automatically delivered without you having to pay anything and you should never respond to demands for money to be sent via money transfer.

Population Census Scam - 24 February 2012

The Office of National Statistics (ONS) has issued a warning about an e-mail that is circulating entitled "Population Census: A Message to Everyone-Act Now" allegedly from National Statistician Jill Matheson.

The 2011 Census was completed last year and this scam has no connection with the national statistician or ONS.

If you receive this e-mail or one similar, don't open the links or provide any personal information as this could put financial/personal information at risk.

Free beauty products - 24 February 2012

Trading Standards are warning residents about adverts offering 'free' cosmetics. A local resident received a pop up message on their computer which offered a 'free' sample of face cream. After giving their card details to pay for the postage and packing they then found they had actually ordered a monthly supply costing £75 a month.

Enquiries indicate that the business is run from overseas. Our advice is to be wary of such offers and check the small print before giving credit or debit card details.

Inheritance Scams - 24 February 2012

Trading Standards are again warning consumers in Coventry to watch out for scam letters offering a share of a large inheritance.

A number of residents have brought us personalised but identical letters offering a large amount of money because they share the same name as a now deceased business man. See an example of one of these letters. It appears that a large number of these letters have been posted to addresses across the City with addresses most likely taken straight from telephone directories.

Although a very 'low tech' scam in its approach these letters can feel unnerving or even slightly threatening to some people.

Online Dating Scams - 24 February 2012

A study by the University of Leicester has estimated that more than 200,000 people in Britain may have been conned by fraudsters posing as would-be romantic partners on internet dating. It is believed that losses range from £50 to £240,000.

Romance fraudsters target people who use internet dating, social web sites and newspaper personals and provide fictional profiles, using fake photographs. The scammer will build up a close relationship with a victim and then ask for some kind of financial help.

It is not just the financial loss that people suffer it is also the heartbreak of discovering that the person with whom they had fallen in love was the invention of a skilled con artist.

• Never send money to someone you don't know
• Only use a reputable online dating or chat service and follow their safety tips
• Report any suspicions

Residents warned about council tax rebanding calls - 24 February 2012

Residents in Coventry should be wary of any calls from companies claiming to be able to reduce their council tax bills.