TRAVELLING conmen from New South Wales are targeting the Barwon region, according to Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV).
CAV director Dr Claire Noone said intelligence reports indicated several suspects planned to meet in the region.
“We’re concerned they may take the opportunity to door-knock and rip off Victorians on their way,” Dr Noone said.
“I urge all Victorians, especially people living in the Barwon region and along routes to the area, to be wary of uninvited offers to do work at rates that seem cheap or are available ‘today only’ or for ‘cash only’.
“Travelling conmen usually demand cash up front for jobs such as asphalting, roofing work, painting and gardening, then disappear, leaving poor quality or incomplete work.
“They prey on unsuspecting and trusting people, often ripping off older Victorians, people with a disability, residents who speak little or no English and full-time mums or carers.
“If you know someone who may be at risk, please help them to be aware and ready to say no to uninvited and high-pressure offers.”
Dr Noone said summer was peak season for travelling conmen but this year they were already out in force.
“They’re organised, changing their practices to avoid detection and in some cases appear to be using letter-drop companies to deliver professional-looking flyers.
“The flyers may even carry the logos of industry organisations to create the illusion of legitimacy.”
Dr Noone said strategies to avoid falling victim included: resisting easy or cheap deals; obtaining written quotes from established tradespeople and checking with previous clients as references; asking for tradespeople’s full names and registration or licence details; and checking any named business’s contact details or calling to confirm the tradesperson’s employment.
Dr Noon urged residents to report suspicious activity on 1300 133 408.
