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A person with dementia was driven to a cash machine and pressured to withdraw £500 for unnecessary driveway cleaning work in Rushmere St Andrew last week.
Why it matters: Suffolk Trading Standards is warning residents to be vigilant against doorstep traders after this recent scam targeting a vulnerable individual.
The big picture: Doorstep scams often target vulnerable individuals, using high-pressure tactics to extract money for unnecessary or poor-quality work.
The details:
The victim was approached at home and agreed to have their driveway cleaned
Traders then drove the resident to Ipswich to withdraw £500 cash
The suspects were seen in a white van in the Rushmere St Andrew area
What they're saying: "Never deal with traders on your doorstep. Do your research before agreeing to have any work carried out," Suffolk Trading Standards advised.
How to protect yourself:
Don't agree to work from cold callers or feel pressured to have jobs done immediately.
Get multiple quotes from reputable traders, and check Suffolk Trusted Trader for vetted options.
Ask for full business details and written quotes before any work starts.
Only pay once work is completed satisfactorily, avoid cash payments.
What's next: Suffolk Trading Standards is investigating and asks anyone with information to contact them via Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.
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