Trading Standards Alert - cold calling for Yellow Pages

Kent Trading Standards has received information suggesting that businesses are being approached by a trader giving the impression that they are the Yellow Pages calling regarding their renewal. However, it turns out the caller is not from the Yellow Pages and the business has agreed to advertise with another company, agreeing to pay a £1068 fee plus £89 a month.

Kent Trading Standards are warning Kent businesses to be wary when speaking to people on the telephone regarding advertising, supplies etc. Always check who it is you are speaking to and ask what your reference or account number is. Alternatively, call the company back using a number you have on previous paperwork.

It is also common for callers to say they are just calling to check it is convenient to deliver items. The unsuspecting employee agrees believing it is a genuine order so gives their name and confirms other details. The company then claims the employee agreed to the order.

Information on scams can be found on the business section of their website http://www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/kent/business.htm

If you require advice please call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.