Disabled warned over scooter scam

A SCAM that threatens users of mobility scooters across Rotherham has been exposed

Rotherham Trading Standards are warning the public to beware of misleading calls from an out-of-town trader offering mobility servicing.

Customers are being mislead into thinking that the call is from their existing supplier, and only find out the truth when they receive an invoice from an unknown company.

Local mobility suppliers have obtained complaints from customers regarding the scam, many have received substantial bills and unsatisfactory repairs.

Cllr Jahangir Akhtar, Cabinet member for Housing and Neighbourhoods, said:

“Unfortunately, there are some very unscrupulous companies operating out there who have no hesitation in hoodwinking the elderly or vulnerable members of society by such a scam.

“Although door-to-door canvassing as such, is not illegal, cold calling very often results in complaints about sub-standard work. It is very often then extremely difficult to trace the trader to get any redress.”

Rotherham Trading Standards has also warned that the summer months are a peak time for complaints about rogue traders who carry out home improvement work resulting from cold calls or a knock on the door.

If in doubt, customers are advised to check with their regular service dealer.

For any advice and to report any concerns please contact Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.

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