Posted on Wednesday 7th December 2011
Staffordshire Trading Standards are warning of a dangerous energy saving scam targeting the elderly.
The Trading Standards Institute is urging consumers to be aware of telephone scammer’s cold calling to offer the energy saving devices.
The scammer will claim to be an energy supplier or to be working in partnership with them. They offer the device for £99 and state it can save 40% off energy bills. Trading Standards have received hundreds of complaints and have had a number of the devices tested.
The devices failed to satisfy electrical safety standards and do not deliver on the energy saving claims.
The caller often appears to be very genuine by already knowing the consumers details, their energy supplier and even some of their bank or card details. Consumers do not realise they have been scammed until they receive a dodgy device with instructions in broken English and the invoice will name an unknown supplier and often an American address.
If you or someone you know has fallen to this scam please report the matter to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit their website at www.actionfraud.org.uk|
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Dangerous Energy Saving Plug 241kb|