A NEW publicity campaign has been launched to warn older people in Inverclyde to watch out for rogue traders.

Scammers have been persistently cold calling local people during the lockdown and Inverclyde Council’s Trading Standards Team is backing the new campaign led by Police Scotland.

The district has been plagued with scams, frequently focused on trying to convince people to provide their bank details to claim bogus council tax refunds.

Before the lockdown a number of people had also been targeted by gardening firms doing sub-standard work for inflated prices.

Councillor Michael McCormick said: “This new campaign is designed to raise awareness about doorstep crime.

"Our clear message is close the door on uninvited callers.

"No-one has to answer the door to a cold caller, especially during lockdown."

Doorstep scams often involve the rogue trader offering to power wash driveways, clear gutters, fix loose tiles or tidy up the garden.

More recently scammers have also started offering to disinfect the driveway and doors.

Mr McCormick said: “Most scams start with a cold call either at your front door, on the phone, by text, letter or email.

"Be suspicious about anyone approaching you out of the blue.

“Our Trading Standards Team is working hard to protect local people from a crime which deeply affects victims both financially and personally."