How to spot fake council workers after attempted Stowmarket solar panel scam
Residents are being warned to be vigilant when answering their door to people claiming to be council workers after a scammer attempted to defraud a Stowmarket resident out of £200 for fake solar panel repairs.
Why it matters: Doorstep fraudsters often pose as council officials to gain trust, and Suffolk Trading Standards warns these scams can target anyone.
The big picture: Last Thursday, a Stowmarket resident was approached by someone falsely claiming to be from Mid Suffolk District Council, demanding £200 in cash for supposed solar panel repairs.
Be smart: Suffolk Trading Standards says public service employees must show identity cards when visiting homes. They warn that fake cards have been used by scammers.
How to verify if a council worker is genuine:
- Always ask to see their identity card
- Check it has both a photograph and the organisation's name
- Call the council to verify their identity
- Use official phone numbers from your bills or the phone book – not numbers on ID cards
- A genuine worker will not mind waiting while you verify their credentials
If you're suspicious:
- Do not hand over any money
- Close the door
- Report incidents to Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133
The bottom line: Legitimate council workers will never demand cash payments on the doorstep and will always carry proper identification that can be verified. Always report incidents to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service.
Independent local journalism is expensive to produce
It's free for you to read thanks to the generous support of our partners.
Below the line