HAMPSHIRE’s Trading Standards officers are reminding residents to be alert to cold-callers following reports of the latest scam

The caller purports to be from the Office of Fair Trading investigating a company having done work at the resident’s address, saying they may be due compensation, but demanding a contribution towards court costs.

Residents are advised not to rely on identity cards as proof the caller is genuine as it is always best to make independent enquiries using a telephone number sourced independently. Information provided by cold callers, such as telephone numbers, should not be relied upon when making checks.

Consumers have statutory rights when buying at the door, including a 14-day right to cancel contracts for goods and services worth over £42, the right to a refund, replacement or repair if goods are faulty, falsely described or not fit for purpose.

But those rights can only be exercised if the trader gives correct contact information. Trading Standards recommends residents do not buy goods at the door – see www.hants.gov.uk/trad ingstandards for advice.

Members of the council’s ‘Buy With Confidence’ scheme are audited to ensure they are legal, honest and fair.

Call 01962 833620 or see www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk for more information.

Anyone with information about cold callers or who requires advice on doorstep crime should call 01962 833666 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) and outside those hours call police on 101 or 999, if you are intimidated.