Trading Standards is warning the public about fraudsters spoofing bank messages. For further details, please go to our ‘Alerts’ page.
Category Archives: Safety
‘Cold callers’ could be active in your area
Now that the lockdown restrictions are being eased, the Consumer Association (Which?) is warning residents to be on their guard for an increase in cold callers on your doorstep. These operators might be offering repair jobs such as gutter cleaning, roof repairs etc.
You are advised not to use cold callers as they may suggest that more work is required than initially stated. They will probably charge much more than usual and the work may be of an inferior standard.
If you feel intimidated by these people or have a complaint, please contact Trading Standards on 0808 223 1133.
New scam warning about a ‘police’ scam
Contactless card payment limit to rise
From April 1st the limit for contactless card payments will rise from £30 to £45. This action has been taken partly to reduce the number of cash transactions but also to assist in preventing the spread of the coronavirus.
MOTs extended for 6 months
If your vehicle is due for an MOT on or after March 30th 2020, the MOT date will b extended by 6 months. Different rules apply for lorries, buses and trailers. For further information, please go to our ‘Topical News’ page.
Self-isolating or unable to shop for food?
Where to find food & necessities during the Coronavirus outbreak? As at 23 March, HELP and Supporting Older People, have kindly provided a list of some companies offering deliveries locally to people who are having to self-isolate at home over the coming weeks. Please note this may be subject to change, depending on the developing situation. For the list of suppliers, please visit our ‘Topical News’ page.
This information is also being communicated via North Yorkshire Community Messaging.
LNER – changes to rail travel
LNER has announced new restrictions to its rail services. The company has closed its telephone lines and so there will be delays in replying to enquiries. For further details of all of the changes, please see our ‘Topical News’ page.
Warning from Action Fraud
‘Just because someone knows a few basic details about you, it doesn’t mean they are genuine. Fraudsters regularly use personal information to build trust and believability’.
Don’t take any risks. If you don’t know the caller, hang up.
Warning about post-Brexit scams
The Consumer Association (Which?) is advising people to be on the alert for scams, as criminals prey on consumers’ uncertainty about their rights following Brexit. Remember legitimate organisations will not telephone you and ask you to move your money. If you’re not sure what to do, contact the organisation on an official line and check the information you have been given.
Small gestures make a huge difference
Lots of us are already doing a great job of looking out for each other, but there is still more we can do to make our local areas healthier and happier for everyone. ‘Looking Out for Neighbours’ is a community campaign running across West Yorkshire and Harrogate to help local people feel better in the place they live and have the peace of mind good neighbours bring. For further advice and tips on how to help neighbours, follow this link.