Residents are being urged to watch out for a current scam from companies offering a free burglar alarm.
Once somebody signs up for the alarm and its installation they are then hit with costs of thousands of pounds for its upkeep.
Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Trading Standards is working with the Trading Standards Institute and other Trading Standards throughout the country to raise awareness of this scam, and to encourage consumers to say no to companies offering the alarms.
Often the companies claim they are working with the police or as part of a Government scheme, or that they are researching for a fire and security alarm system company.
Councillor Lyn Ackerman, cabinet member for the environment said: “I would encourage anyone who is offered free or cheap goods such as these burglar alarms to really seriously consider whether the offer is genuine.
“Speak to family and friends about the offer before making any commitments, and if you are in any doubt at all, say no.
“Also, if you feel that you have been taken in by a scam, please do not suffer in silence, there are people that can help.”
The salesmen will typically cold call, keen to make a home visit the same day to discuss the installation of a free or cheap alarm. The companies are reported to use high-pressure tactics to scaremonger residents about rising crime levels in the area.
Some are also reported to make misleading claims about the alarms being directly linked to the police or the availability of a hotline to police patrol cars.
What they fail to mention are the fees that residents will have to pay for the monitoring, upkeep and rapid response facilities, which can add up to thousands of pounds.
Some have found themselves tied to a six-year contract agreement costing up to £6,000.
Consumers who do sign on the dotted line will have a seven day cooling off period during which they can change their minds – but if the consumer then agrees in writing for installation to take place within this period they are waiving this consumer right.
TSI’s Chief Executive, Ron Gainsford said: “These companies seem to be working their way from one area to another so we would urge residents across the country to be on their guard. Consumers should never feel rushed to sign up to anything, and remember the mantra: ‘Any deal that seems to good to be true, probably is.’
“Salesmen trying to sell you something over the phone or on your doorstep could be anyone. Talk to family, friends or neighbours if you are unsure or worried, or contact Consumer Direct, who will be able to advise and refer the case to the relevant trading standards department where appropriate.”
For help and advice, please contact Consumer Direct by calling 08454 04 05 06 or visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk