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# Warning issued as vulnerable resident targeted in driveway cleaning scam
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/warning-issued-as-vulnerable-resident-targeted-in-driveway-cleaning-scam/
- Published: 2024-10-03T13:21:23.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:33:48.000Z
- Description: 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.
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, Appeals, Scams & Consumer Safety, #article, Suffolk Trading Standards, #Import 2026-03-16 14:46

**Why it matters:** [Suffolk Trading Standards](https://www.ipswich.co.uk/tag/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.

![Pressure washing a driveway](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1727962250-pressure-wash-driveway-scam-1.png)

Don't agree to work from cold callers or feel pressured to have jobs done immediately Photo: tagphoto (Thomas Holt)

**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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