Scottish Borders Council Trading Standards’ ‘Scam Van’ has been visiting local residents this week, dispensing advice to help them protect themselves against scammers.
Following the launch of the Scottish Borders Trusted Trader Scheme in June 2023, the Scam Van aims to support the scheme in improving consumer protection. This includes providing tools to make informed decisions and important resources to combat rogue traders.
The Scam van set out on its five-day tour of the region on Monday 20 May to provide guidance for identifying and combating fraud, and highlighting where residents can seek advice and assistance. Eligible residents have the opportunity to learn about True Call Blockers, which can be installed at no cost to deter unwanted cold callers.
Councillor Julie Pirone, Scottish Borders Council Executive Member for Communities and Culture, said: “I am delighted that we are empowering local people to take action against scammers and protect themselves through the launch of the Scam Van Tour.
“This a great opportunity for everyone, no matter their age, to gain the knowledge and tools needed to protect ourselves against scammers and fraud which sadly is on the increase. If you know what to do, then it makes it easier to protect yourself and members of your family.
“Working together with our local communities and other key partners, we hope that together we can continue to raise awareness and champion the rights of consumers.”
More information on the Scottish Borders Trusted Trader Scheme is available at: www.scotborders.gov.uk/trustedtrader.
Sadly the scammers seemed to have moved with the times and the technologies that have been developed to help people make informed decisions and improve their standards of life.