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# How to spot fake council workers after attempted Stowmarket solar panel scam
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/how-to-spot-fake-council-workers-solar-panel-scam/
- Published: 2024-10-30T07:46:55.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:31:43.000Z
- Description: 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.
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, Scams & Consumer Safety, #article, Suffolk Trading Standards, #Import 2026-03-16 14:46

**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.

![Solar panel scam](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1730128501-solar-panel-scam-1.png)

Suffolk Trading Standards are warning Ipswich residents of doorstop fraudsters targeting homes with solar panels

**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](https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/get-more-help/if-you-need-more-help-about-a-consumer-issue/?ref=ipswich.co.uk).

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