HAMPSHIRE County Council’s Trading Standards service is reminding residents to be alert to cold callers.

The latest scam involves a cold caller purporting to be from the Office of Fair Trading investigating a company that had done work at the resident’s address and saying that the resident may be due compensation, but demanding a contribution toward 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. However, these rights can only be exercised if the seller is a trader who gives correct contact information. Trading Standards recommends residents do not buy goods at the door.

For more details, visit hants.gov.uk/tradingstandards.

Members of the county council’s ‘Buy With Confidence’ scheme are audited to ensure their trading practices are legal, honest and fair. Details can be obtained by calling 01962 833620, e-mailing [email protected] or via buywithconfidence.gov.uk.

Anyone with information about cold callers or who requires advice on doorstep crime should call 01962 833666 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm). Outside those hours, call the police on 101 or 999, if intimidated.