Beware of bogus bill bluffers

NORTH East Lincolnshire Council is urging elderly residents across the borough to be aware of doorstep callers posing as officials after concerns that there has been a recent increase in the area.

There are concerns that there have been a number of recent cases of callers posing as council workers asking to check people's energy bills and take the home occupiers' bank details.

And trading standards officers have reiterated warnings asking people to check callers' identification details and to call police or Consumer Direct if they have any concerns.

Andy Foster, trading standards manager at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: "If people have any concerns they should not allow callers to access their property and certainly shouldn't give out their bank details.

"Reputable traders will have the appropriate identification - but people should always ask why checks are being carried out on their property. If they have any concerns they should contact police or Consumer Direct immediately."

Meanwhile, reputable traders can sign up to the Home Service Directory (HSD), a council-backed service that vets businesses and carries out widespread checks on their efficiency and value for money. Customers can ask traders if they belong to the HSD for added peace of mind if they have any concerns about a business.

Councillor Steve Beasant, the council's portfolio holder for communities and neighbourhoods, said: "It is worrying to learn of this increase in bogus officials. who often prey on vulnerable people within our community.

"I can only re-iterate the need to ask for appropriate identification and ask occupiers to be vigilant and trust their instincts. If people have concerns, call Consumer Direct or the police."

If you would like to report any bogus calls to trading standards please contact consumer direct on 08454 04 05 06. For more on the HSD, go to www.hsd.org.uk