WEST Yorkshire Police has teamed up with Trading Standards to offer advice on how to beat rogue traders.?

The 'Not Sure? Don’t Open the Door!' campaign is aimed at the vulnerable, elderly people, and their families. ?

Police forces, Trading Standards and partner agencies all across the country are taking part in enforcement activity to disrupting criminals pretending to be legitimate traders.

West Yorkshire Assistant Chief Constable Angela Williams said: “Rogue traders are criminals who take advantage of householders by using high-pressure sales techniques.

"The work is often expensive, sub-standard and not required at all.?

“Raising awareness of the dangers posed by rogue traders is particularly important as is following a few simple steps which can greatly reduce your chance of being a victim of such criminals on your own doorstep.”?

Chris Joyce, West Yorkshire Police’s Crime Prevention Officer, said: “We are asking residents to check the identity of the doorstep caller by telephoning the company they are purporting to be from.

"Use the telephone numbers listed in your local directory and check whether traders are members of the Consumer Codes Approval Scheme or the Government Trust Mark Scheme. ?

“Discuss any work to be carried out with a relative or friend who can help you find a reputable trader and never sign anything on the spot, pay cash up front or go to a bank or cash point with a trader.?

“Lastly, if you suspect a rogue trader is at your door then call 999.”?

David Lodge, head of West Yorkshire Trading Standards, added: “Rogue trading is the deliberate overcharging for unsatisfactory goods or services, for example the charging of unnecessary work, damaging property deliberately, leaving work unfinished and intimidating behaviour in order to obtain money.?

“We are continuing to target perpetrators who carry out these crimes, and who deliberately target vulnerable people. We will continue to seek prosecutions, as well as offering support to victims and reduce repeat victimisation.”?

Mark Burns-Williamson, West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “This behaviour is absolutely despicable and we must all do what we can to stop rogue traders. ?

“I would also urge everyone to have a think about their relatives and loved ones and pass these prevention messages on to anyone they feel may be vulnerable to door step crime.”

Anyone with any information about rogue traders has been urged to call police on 999 in an emergency or 101.

Information can also be passed to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.