By Eric White

ROGUE or doorstep traders, scammers and faulty used car sales are three of the biggest issues combatted by Trading Standards in Essex. To help you avoid the most common tricks con-artists use, Essex Trading Standards has released a series of animated videos.

Cllr Anne Brown, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Corporate, Communities and Customers, said: “These animations are a fantastic way to raise awareness of the dangers of rogue or doorstep trading, scams and buying a used car.

“Some traders operate purely to con you out of your money, and although Trading Standards are experienced in dealing with these issues we still need your help to ensure your family member, friend or neighbour does not become a victim.

“Trading Standards receive more complaints about used cars than anything else, so we hope that the animation will stop people being taken for a ride when purchasing a vehicle.

“If you are concerned that someone you know is being targeted please call Trading Standards to report the issue.”

Rogue traders

Be Sure at the Door is a partnership between Essex Trading Standards, Essex Police and Age UK encouraging elderly residents to say no to cold calling rogue traders.

If you need any work carried out on your home it is recommended you use a trader on the Buy with Confidence Scheme. A Buy with Confidence trader has been audited and approved by Trading Standards and you can find the nearest three to your postcode by calling 03454 040506 or visiting buywithconfidence.gov.uk

Scams

Essex Trading Standards will launch their Too Good to Be True scams campaign this summer. Every year thousands of Essex residents are targeted by scams through emails, phone calls and letters with fake prize draws, lotteries, offers and competitions.

These scams will often ensnare people by promising a very tantalising prize for a very low fee, but it doesn’t take long for those small payments to add up. Trading Standards #2Good2bTrue campaign advises: if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Used cars

Some used car dealers may mislead potential customers or cover up issues with a car to make a sale. Trading Standards receives more complaints about this than anything else.

The used car animation gives examples of actions a consumer can do to make sure the car they are buying is fit for purpose.