Residents across North Wiltshire are being warned to stay alert after rogue traders posing as workmen conned vulnerable people out of thousands of pounds.
Scammers claiming to fix “damaged” underground pipes have targeted residents in Calne, Chippenham and Corsham, police say.
To help raise awareness, the local Neighbourhood Policing Team held a ‘Stop the Scammers’ event across the three towns, speaking to residents about how to spot rogue traders and what to do if they are approached.
Officers were out in Calne, Chippenham and Corsham alongside Wiltshire Council’s Trading Standards Team, fraud prevention specialists and the Bobby Van Trust.
The event follows three recent incidents believed to be linked in Box, Chippenham and Calne, where vulnerable residents were targeted.
In each case, offenders called victims on their home phones to arrange a visit the following day. When they arrived, they claimed underground pipes at the property were cracked and urgently needed repair work costing between £3,000 and £7,000.
Victims were shown photographs supposedly showing the damage – but police say the images were not genuine.
After claiming to carry out repairs, the offenders took payment and left, having completed no work.
Two people have since been arrested in connection with the incidents. The investigation is now being led by Wiltshire Council Trading Standards, and officers believe the offending may form part of a wider regional scam.
PC Jess Swanborough said:
“We want people to stay vigilant and I hope our presence in all three towns today serves as a reminder to residents of the warning signs to look out for.
“These scammers are often very convincing, but their actions can leave victims feeling upset and embarrassed. Sadly, many people feel reluctant to tell their families that they have fallen victim to a scam because they feel ashamed, so it is important that we get out and about and speak with residents face to face.”
Residents are also being encouraged to use the council’s Buy With Confidence approved trader scheme, which lists businesses independently checked by Trading Standards.
Gideon Hunter said scammers often use convincing logos and branding to gain trust.
“If you need work carried out at your home, it’s important to use a trusted trader,” he said. “Try to get recommendations from friends or family, obtain several quotes before agreeing to work, and use a Buy With Confidence member whenever possible.”
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