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Types of Fraud

Every year many people are conned into parting with their money by well-organised tricksters. Both consumers and businesses are targeted.

  • Doorstep: People call at your door telling you that a roof tile is loose, your driveway needs repairing, they can cut trees down cheaply, try to sell you a mattress or some fish etc. Find out more about doorstep callers.
  • Telephone: Phone calls telling you that you need to pay an urgent bill and requesting your bank details, companies offering services to reduce you unwanted phone calls.
  • Online: 'Copycat' websites selling services that are either free or cheaper via the official Government route.
  • Post: Letters informing you that you have won a prize, psychics telling you they can predict harm is coming your way and for a fee they can protect you, catalogues promises you a prize if you place another order quickly.

How to Spot a Scam

Ask Yourself These Questions:

  • Was the offer unsolicited?
  • Does it look too good to be true?
  • Do I have to send money upfront?
  • Do I have to respond 'at once'?
  • Do I have to purchase to win a prize?
  • Do I have to ring a premium rate phone number?
  • Do I have to give my bank or credit card details?
  • Do I have to send the money to a PO Box number?
  • Do I have to send money by bank transfer?
  • Am I asked to keep it confidential?

If the answer to any of these questions is 'yes', then you may be the target of a scam.

Before you part with any money or send any personal details, take advice from Citizens Advice Consumer Service. The chances are that you will never see it again once you have sent the money.

Other Helpful Links

(please note that the TPS does not stop unwanted text messages)

Nottingham City Council Trading Standards collects, holds and processes a considerable amount of information, including personal information about the citizens we serve, to allow us to provide services effectively.

If you have been visited by one of our officers concerning a scam or fraud, please see the National Scams Team’s privacy notice. 

Contact us

Trading Standards
Loxley House
Station Street
Nottingham
NG2 3NG

trading.standards@nottinghamcity.gov.uk

Tel: 08082231133

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