Shetland Islands Council is warning residents of salespeople going door-to-door, and online adverts about forthcoming visits to Shetland, using high-pressure sales tactics and making false claims.
“Every year we hear about rogue traders trying to put pressure on people to buy goods or services on the doorstep,” says David Marsh, Trading Standards Team Leader with Shetland Islands Council, “and it is now increasingly likely that some will promote their offers through Facebook and other social media even before they arrive here.”
“Typical false claims include special pricing offers, limited availability, exaggerated claims about warranties and guarantees, and supposed links to the council or to reputable local businesses – while the reality often turns out to be items or work which are not up to the quality the consumer was led to expect.”
“The best defence is to take time to check out any claims and to shop around – and if someone at your door refuses to take no for an answer, then phone Trading Standards or the Police right away.”
“You may get asked to pay a large deposit for work that is promised – our advice is to be very cautious about any such request, as it could be almost impossible to get your money back if the trader never shows up or the work is not satisfactory.”
“Some of the most distressing reports we get are about vulnerable members of our community being pressured into handing over large sums of money for products or work which were neither wanted nor needed. If you’re concerned about whether an offer is genuine, your family, friends or neighbours can often provide very valuable advice and support – and we want to encourage folk to look out for those around them who may get caught up in such situations.”
You can report doorstep sellers, questionable online promotions or other suspicious activity to Trading Standards on 01595 744887 or by emailing trading.standards@shetland.gov.uk – but if you feel threatened by someone, dial 999 to contact Police Scotland.
- Trading Standards have information packs with advice to help people deal with cold callers (whether at the door, online, on the phone, or by post or email) and to help folk support family, friends or neighbours who may be more susceptible to the high pressure tactics and false claims which are often employed. These can be picked up from 8 North Ness, or posted out on request.