Trading Standards Warn Of Increase In Scams Targeting Island Residents

Trading Standards say they have received a growing number of reports about scams affecting residents on the Isle of Wight, with several different frauds currently circulating.

One recent case involved a drainage company that allegedly quoted an elderly Island resident £7,000 for work that later cost just £700 when carried out by another trader.

The company is said to have conducted a camera survey before providing the vastly inflated quote.

Trading Standards are reminding residents to always use trusted traders and, where possible, rely on personal recommendations before agreeing to work on their property.

The parking fine scam has also resurfaced.

Residents are being contacted by text message or email claiming they have outstanding parking fines and urging them to click on a link to make an immediate payment.

Trading Standards stress that this is a scam.

The Isle of Wight Council will never contact people by text message about overdue parking tickets, and legitimate parking companies would not have access to your mobile number or email address.

There have also been numerous reports of emails claiming to be from Microsoft, warning that an email account will be deleted unless the recipient clicks a link and updates their details.

This is another scam, and residents are advised not to click on any links contained in these messages.

Telephone scams are also increasing, with callers claiming to be from BT Openreach.

Victims are told that their internet IP address is being used for illegal gambling and are instructed to switch to a different IP address.

Trading Standards warn that following these instructions could allow scammers access to a home internet network, putting personal and financial information at risk.

In addition, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police have reported a rise in scam communications pretending to be from Companies House.

Companies House will never contact individuals by phone, text, or email to request secure or personal information.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant, avoid clicking on links or providing personal details, and report any suspected scams to Trading Standards or Action Fraud.