Hampshire Constabulary: Police and Trading Standards offer advice after reports of high pressure sales in Portsmouth

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Police and Trading Standards offer advice after reports of high pressure sales in Portsmouth

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Published: 18/09/2009

People in Portsmouth are being warned to take care when making purchases or appointments with cold callers, after reports of high pressure sales in the city.

A number of people have recently received phone calls offering services relating to home security, and some have been visited at their homes.

The calls and visits have predominantly been received by elderly people across Portsmouth, and those who have reported the incidents to police and Trading Standards have voiced concern over high pressure sales techniques, and have said they felt intimidated.

One official complaint has been made to police in the last week, but numerous other reports have been made relating to this type of behaviour, and so advice is being offered to help recipients of these calls respond confidently.

Residents should remember they are under no obligation to enter into a sale or agreement, and they do not need to allow anyone into their home if they are not comfortable doing so.

Crime Prevention Officer Ian Freeston said, "When investing in security systems for your home or business it’s not advisable to deal with cold callers or telesales enquiries – you should avoid doing doorstep or telephone business. Many traders who call at your door are honest and genuine, however, some are not and can be extremely persuasive.

“Examples of bad practices associated with cold calling and door step selling include pressure selling, unclear contracts, over priced security systems and unduly raising the fear of crime. If members of the public have serious doubts about the legality or sales techniques being employed by this type of security company, they should contact the police or Trading Standards for advice."

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