Trading standards news
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Engagement initiative with taxi and private hire cars in Inverness and Fort William
Published on 19 Nov 2024Highlands and Islands Road Policing Officers along with partners from Highland Council Trading Standards, carried out roadside checks on taxis and private hire cars as part of an engagement initiative
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New Highland Trusted Trader scheme to be launched
Published on 18 Nov 2024New Highland Trusted Trader scheme to be launched
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Highland Council Trading Standards find 1 in 3 retailers selling vapes to under 18s
Published on 5 Nov 2024Highland Council’s Trading Standards team is reporting worrying findings from the age restricted product test purchase programme it carried out over the last six months.
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Trading Standards warning about UK Government Living Allowance scam text
Published on 17 Oct 2024Highland Council Trading Standards are warning residents to be on their guard following reports of an unsolicited text message claiming to be from the UK Government Living Allowance Office.
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Parking penalty charge notice scam warning
Published on 13 Sep 2024The Highland Council Trading Standards service is urging motorists to be aware of a recent trend in scam texts aimed at tricking people into thinking they have to act quickly to pay a PCN.
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Vape ban for Inverness retailer after sales to children
Published on 8 May 2024Vape ban for Inverness retailer after sales to children
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Trading Standards warn householders about traders offering home energy product installation
Published on 20 Nov 2023Trading Standards warn householders about traders offering home energy product installation
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Trading Standards take action on vape sales
Published on 14 Aug 2023Highland Council’s Trading Standards Team is appealing for help from reputable businesses and the public in the battle to tackle illegal sales of vaping products.
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Trading Standards takes court action against Alness shop selling illegal vapes
Published on 25 Jul 2023An Order was granted by Tain Sheriff Court which places legal requirements and restrictions on local nicotine vape seller, Mohammad Shuaab Director trading as, J&M Patterson Ltd, 33-35 High St. Alness
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Highland self storage businesses receive a Big Tick
Published on 16 May 2023Two Highland businesses signed up to the Tick Box Code of Practice.
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Home energy products warning to householders
Published on 29 Mar 2023Home energy products warning to householders
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Trading Standards takes action on unsafe nicotine levels in vapes and sales to children
Published on 5 Sep 2022Trading Standards is urging retailers who are registered to sell Nicotine Vapour Products (NVPs, more commonly known as vapes or e-cigarettes) to ensure that they buy from reputable UK suppliers.
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Householders warned about traders offering to install home energy products
Published on 26 Jul 2022Council Trading Standards & EES:ABS programme joining forces to warn unsuspecting householders to be on their guard if they are approached by traders offering to install home energy products.
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Highland Council Trading Standards Warns Of Scam ‘TestNTrace’ Text Messages
Published on 13 Apr 2022Highland Council Trading Standards are warning unsuspecting members of the public to be on their guard and not fall victim to a COVID-19 contact tracing text scam that is currently in circulation.
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Highland Trading Standards team highlight risks from disposable vaping products
Published on 23 Feb 2022The Highland Council’s Trading Standards team are highlighting the dangers of disposable vaping products and warning consumers to be aware.
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Online buyers encouraged to know their delivery rights and report concerns
Published on 25 Nov 2021With the peak internet buying season upon us, shoppers are being advised to know their rights & report problems about unfair delivery surcharges, misleading claims & unjustified delivery restrictions.
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Are you due a cash refund? – Consumer Government Watchdog Groupon Ruling
Published on 12 Oct 2021The Highland Council Trading Standards team are highlighting that customers could be due cash refunds after consumer government watchdog Groupon voucher ruling.
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Council raises awareness on market operator’s licences
Published on 4 Oct 2021The Highland Council are asking any businesses, companies or organisations who are planning to hold any type of market, including Christmas or festive type markets, to contact the Licensing Service to check if they require a market operator’s licence.
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Highland Council Trading Standards Warns of Council Tax Scam
Published on 9 Aug 2021The Highland Council Trading Standards is warning Highland residents that text messages stating they are due a tax refund from their local council is a scam.
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‘Shut Out Scammers’ Campaign 2021
Published on 30 Apr 2021The Highland Council’s Trading Standards and Police Scotland’s Highlands and Islands Division will participate in a nationwide ‘Shut Out Scammers’ campaign throughout May.
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Highland Council warns businesses to beware of COVID-19 air purifier device scam
Published on 27 Apr 2021Trading Standards is warning Highland businesses that letters advising them of a change in law & compelling them to purchase COVID safe air purifying devices or risk facing a £5,000 fine, is a scam.
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Royal Mail Scam Text Message Alert
Published on 8 Mar 2021The Highland Council's Trading Standards team have been alerted to a smishing scam that is currently targeting Highland residents.
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Concerns Grow After Fake Covid Vaccine Scams Emerge
Published on 11 Jan 2021The Highland Council 's Trading Standards team and NHS Highland are warning Highland residents to be very aware of the latest Covid scams that are emerging across the UK. It is very likely that these scams are linked and the consequences of being a victim of these scams may go beyond financial harm.
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Highland Council Trading Standards take local man to court over counterfeit cigarettes and tobacco seizure
Published on 7 Dec 2020Wick Sheriff Court has granted a court order against local Thurso man Mr Thomas Russell.
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Highland Residents Urged To “re-gift” Scam Mail For ‘Scamnesty’ 2020 Campaign
Published on 2 Dec 2020Throughout December, Highland Council Trading Standards are supporting a national scam mail amnesty ‘Scamnesty’ 2020 campaign, being run by Friends Against Scams to rid consumers’ homes of scam mail.
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Competition and Markets Authority launches online survey about misleading ‘eco-friendly’ claims
Published on 20 Nov 2020Highland Council Trading Standards are urging both Highland businesses and consumers to take part in an online survey regarding misleading environmental claims.
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Highland Council Trading Standards support National Consumer Week Campaign 2020
Published on 16 Nov 2020he Highland Council Trading Standards team are keen to promote National Consumer Week (NCW) 2020. This year’s campaign will focus on raising awareness of consumer shopping rights online and what con
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Highland Council supports help from the Financial Ombudsman Service for small business affected by Covid 19
Published on 26 Oct 2020Highland Council Trading Standards are keen to raise awareness of the role of The Small Business Financial Ombudsman Service in resolving disputes between small and medium sized businesses (SME’s) and
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Friends Against Scams ‘FASathon’ Campaign – 21st October 2020
Published on 21 Oct 2020Highland Council Trading Standards supports FASathon – the Friends Against Scams marathon day
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Phishing scam alert
Published on 8 Oct 2020The Highland Council 's Trading Standards team have been made aware of a phishing scam that may be targeting highland residents.
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Highland Council Trading Standards warns of hoax lottery scam mailings
Published on 14 Sep 2020Highland residents are being warned that letters claiming they have won a share of £425,000 in a ‘postcode lottery’ is a scam.
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Highland Council warns of COVID-19 crisis grants scam
Published on 14 Jul 2020Highland Council is warning the public to be on their guard for the latest COVID-19 scam which is circulating around the country.
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Highland Council Trading Standards advice on Face Coverings
Published on 19 May 2020Highland Council Trading Standards are highlighting the important difference between types of face masks during the COVID-19 Coronavirus crisis.
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Highland Council warns of business grants scam
Published on 20 Apr 2020The COVID-19 crisis has seen an unprecedented rise in scams across the whole of the UK and Highland Council Trading Standards is issuing a warning to local businesses about a new scam.
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Highland Council Trading Standards warns about council tax scam
Published on 15 Apr 2020Highland Council Trading Standards is again warning unsuspecting residents of the emergence of another council tax scam.
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Trading Standards advice for Helping Hands
Published on 7 Apr 2020As we all deal with uncertainty and isolation during the COVID-19 outbreak, Highland Council’s Trading Standards team know that there are many in our communities who want to volunteer their time.
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Highland Council Trading Standards launches webpage on COVID-19 Scams
Published on 20 Mar 2020Highland Council Trading Standards have today launched a webpage on the Highland Council website aimed at both consumers and businesses to identify the scams known to Trading Standards.
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Highland Council Trading Standards issues advice on COVID-19 Scams
Published on 18 Mar 2020In the wake of the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, Highland Council Trading Standards are issuing a warning to the public about a series of new scams related to the virus.
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Council Tax Scam warning
Published on 12 Feb 2020Highland Council Trading Standards are again warning unsuspecting residents of the emergence of a new Council Tax scam.
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90% of Inverness retailers pass Spray Paint Test Purchasing
Published on 27 Jan 2020Highland Council’s Trading Standards team is reporting positive findings from the spray paint test purchase programme it recently carried out in Inverness.
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Police Launch National Reset Campaign
Published on 11 Dec 2019Police Scotland is launching a campaign to deter the public from buying potentially stolen goods, which fund serious and organised crime.
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Be Scam Aware
Published on 27 Nov 2019Highland Council Trading Standards are asking members of the public to be on their guard as the latest attempt to scam people has been reported.
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Mixed results in firework, cigarette and vape test purchasing by Trading Standards
Published on 12 Nov 2019Highland Council’s Trading Standards team is reporting mixed findings from its Autumn age restricted product test purchase programme.
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Be aware! Council Tax scammers still targeting Highland
Published on 24 Oct 2019The Highland Council has once again been alerted to a Council Tax scam whereby scammers are now writing to customers and claiming that the resident is due a council tax refund.
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Highland Council Trading Standards alert on Safety Recall of Tumble Dryers
Published on 7 Oct 2019Highland Council’s Trading Standards Team is urging consumers to check whether their tumble dryer is covered by a nation-wide product recall.
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Trading Standards in Scotland act to drive consumer complaints about motor cars off the number 1 spot
Published on 17 Sep 2019Consumer complaints about second-hand cars have topped the complaints “league table” in Scotland for many years.
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Highland Council Trading Standards promotes “ Know your rights and Keep Safe” message to students
Published on 9 Sep 2019The Highland Council Trading Standards team and the Trading Standards Service Illegal Money Lending Unit have combined efforts in a bid to advise students on how to protect themselves ....
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Householders warned to be aware of bogus workmen
Published on 22 Aug 2019Householders warned to be aware of bogus workmen At this time of year many householders are thinking of their gardens, keeping them tidy or seeing to those jobs that need done before the weather turns.
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Commitment to ‘Real Deal Market Scheme’ stops sale of counterfeit clothing at Black Isle Show.
Published on 13 Aug 2019Thanks to a complaint from one of the trade stalls at the recent Black Isle Show and the quick response from the Black Isle Farmers Society, Highland Council Trading Standards were able to seize just over 100 counterfeit hoodies, polo shirts and t-shirts from a stall at the show.
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National Award for local Trading Standards Investigator
Published on 12 Aug 2019An officer in the Highland Council’s Trading Standards team has won a UK award for her work on anti-counterfeiting and protecting consumers. Lynn Foster was presented with the Dave Hankinson Memorial Award for Individual Excellence by Phil Lewis, Director General of the Anti-Counterfeiting Group (ACG).
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Highland and Islands Trading Standards warn householders to ‘be on guard’ and reject cold calling ‘home energy’ traders on the doorstep
Published on 1 Jul 2019Local Authority Trading Standards Services across the North of Scotland are warning unsuspecting householders to be on their guard if they are approached by individuals wishing to install home energy products.
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Trading Standards supports Delivery Law website
Published on 24 Jun 2019Trading Standards officers at Highland Council are looking to highlight its importance in the battle for fair internet delivery charges.
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Consumers warned of new “authorised push payment scam” targeting bank customers
Published on 10 Jun 2019Highland Council Trading Standards have been made aware that cold call telephone scammers have recently changed tactics and are now targeting individual bank customers to gain access to bank accounts
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Find out ‘what not to buy’ on world anti-counterfeiting day
Published on 4 Jun 2019Highland Council Trading Standards have organised a display at the Eastgate Shopping Centre in Inverness as part of World Anti-Counterfeiting Day to illustrate examples of ‘what not to buy’.
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Warning – don’t get caught by Council Tax scam
Published on 10 Apr 2019The Highland Council has been alerted to a Council Tax scam whereby scammers are cold calling and claiming that the resident can have their Council Tax band reassessed upon payment of £150.
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Highland Council highlights health and safety risks from inflatable play equipment
Published on 11 Feb 2019Following the tragic fatality last year in Norfolk involving a child and an inflatable Bouncy Castle, and a further incident on an inflatable slide at Woking where ten children were injured and taken to hospital, The Highland Council’s Environmental Health Service is responding to Health and Safety Executive (HSE) advice and raising awareness of the risks associated with such equipment.
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Trading Standards take action against local counterfeiter
Published on 17 Jan 2019Following a Highland Council Trading Standards investigation, Wick Sheriff Court has imposed a court order on a 42 year old local woman who was found to be selling counterfeit goods.
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Man arrested in connection with "bogus workman" offences
Published on 11 Jan 2019Police in Lochaber can confirm that a 27-year-old man has been arrested in connection with alleged consumer protection offences in Fort William.
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Council advises businesses on how to spot and avoid being scammed
Published on 7 Jan 2019Trading Standards have produced guidance on how to spot the signs of scams that target businesses and also remind businesses to inform their employees on what to look out for when dealing with unsolicited telephone calls, emails and texts.
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Have a Fake Free Christmas and Buy Real – video advice from Trading Standards
Published on 17 Dec 2018Highland Council Trading Standards want everyone to have a ‘fake free’ Christmas this year.
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Know your rights when it comes to fair delivery charges
Published on 4 Dec 2018Know your rights when it comes to fair delivery charges
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Don’t get caught out by email delivery parcel scam this Christmas warns Highland Council Trading Standards
Published on 3 Dec 2018Highland Council Trading Standards have recently become aware of a new phishing e-mail (or text) scam.
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Police and partners to host Festive Safe Highland roadshows
Published on 30 Nov 2018Officers from the Highlands & Islands Preventions and Interventions Unit will be travelling throughout the region in December offering festive safety advice.
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National Consumer Week 2018.
Published on 27 Nov 2018Know your online marketplace rights (Launch date: 26th November 2018)
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Fairer deliveries for all
Published on 26 Nov 2018Consumers will be able to see whether they are paying over the odds for parcel delivery, and avoid traders profiting through unfair means, following a new action plan.
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Illicit cigarettes uncovered by Highland Trading Standards with help from two four-legged friends
Published on 5 Nov 2018Thousands of illicit cigarettes have been uncovered by Highland Council’s Trading Standards Officers with a little help from two specially-trained, four-legged detectives.
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Highland Council Trading Standards – “Stay safe with fireworks”advice
Published on 30 Oct 2018As part of a national safety campaign, Highland Council Trading Standards are urging members of the public to enjoy fireworks safely and responsibly.
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Highland signs up for #notafavour campaign
Published on 21 Aug 2018NHS Highland has signed up to ASH Scotland’s campaign to tackle adults buying tobacco or cigarettes for young people.
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Highland Council Trading Standards “Thinking of Renting a Flat – Make sure you’re clever like Pat” campaign
Published on 6 Aug 2018Citizens Advice Consumer Service and Highland Council Trading Standards are keen to advise students on what to look out for when renting a property.
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New Website Provides One-Stop Shop for Postal Surcharge Concerns
Published on 22 Jun 2018The issue of parcel surcharging has long been a bone of contention for many internet shoppers. However, consumers across the United Kingdom, and especially those living in Northern Ireland and the Highlands and Islands of Scotland are now set to benefit from the launch of a new website which provides a one stop shop to acknowledge these concerns,
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Don’t miss a trick - Scams Awareness Month 2018
Published on 4 Jun 2018Highland Council’s Trading Standards team will be supporting national Scams Awareness Month during June.
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1 in 4 Inverness Retailers Fail Underage Cigarette Test Purchases
Published on 13 Apr 2018Highland Council’s Trading Standards team is reporting poor findings from the cigarette test purchase programme it recently carried out in the Inverness area.
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Beware of calls from scammers pretending to be the Telephone Preference Service warns Highland Council Trading Standards
Published on 20 Mar 2018Highland Council Trading Standards wish to warn consumers not to fall for a new telephone call scam in which fraudsters pretend to be calling from the Telephone Preference Service (or TPS).
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Highland Trading Standards car guide adopted nationally
Published on 16 Feb 2018A business compliance guide produced by Trading Standards Officers at Highland Council has been rolled out for use across the country.
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New deadline for Western Union settlement requests
Published on 15 Feb 2018In December 2017 The Highland Councils Trading Standards team issued a message that there was a fund being held by America’s Federal Trade Commission (FTC) available to people who had been scammed and who had paid the scammer using Western Union. The deadline for applying for a refund was 12 February 2018 but this has been extended to 31 May 2018.
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Highland business sold fireworks to young test purchase volunteer
Published on 22 Jan 2018Highland Council’s Trading Standards team is reporting mixed findings from the age restricted sales test purchase programme it recently carried out in the Inverness and Easter Ross areas.
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Payment surcharges on credit and debit cards to be banned
Published on 16 Jan 2018Payment surcharges on credit and debit cards to be banned
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Highland businesses urged to be on scam alert.
Published on 9 Jan 2018Highland Council Trading Standards team have recently seen an increase in scams targeting Highland businesses.
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Staying safe online - Be aware of your consumer rights
Published on 27 Dec 2017Looking to pick up a New Year bargain in the sales on the internet, by mail order or on the high street? Be aware of your consumer rights
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Food business fined for food safety rules after ignoring previous warning
Published on 18 Dec 2017The Highland Council has successfully prosecuted a food business after discovering unsafe hygiene practices in the transportation of food.
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Cyber security advice for the festive season
Published on 14 Dec 2017Police Scotland is reminding our communities to be on their guard, in both the actual and virtual worlds, against the risk of online fraud over the festive season.
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Buying by internet, phone or mail order or on the high street this Christmas –Advice from Highland Council Trading Standards
Published on 5 Dec 2017UK consumers spend billions of pounds when shopping for Christmas gifts for family and friends. Spending figures for online shopping increase each year. However, how many of us know our online shopping rights or what to do if things go wrong? Or our shopping rights we have on the high street.
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Police and partners launch Festive Safe Highlands roadshows
Published on 5 Dec 2017Police Scotland will be hosting a series of events across the Highlands and Islands offering crime prevention advice throughout December.
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Good news alert for Highland scams victims from Highland Council Trading Standards
Published on 4 Dec 2017Highland consumers who have lost money to a scam involving payment through Western Union wire transfer are being encouraged to file a claim for a refund with America’s Federal Trade Commission.
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“Mind the subscription trap" - Highland Council Trading Standards warn consumers
Published on 27 Nov 2017As part of National Consumer Week 2017 campaign, “Not what you signed up for”, Highland Council Trading Standards are keen to warn consumers to be on their guard when signing up to free trials or one-off discounts.
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New campaign targets adults who give cigarettes to children
Published on 13 Nov 2017Campaigners in the Highlands are supporting a national campaign to challenge adults who buy or give cigarettes to children and young people.
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Trading Standards are looking for Test Purchasers
Published on 9 Oct 2017Trading Standards are looking for young people to take part in test purchasing exercises.
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Multi-agency action tackling suspected underlying criminality in restaurant industry
Published on 22 Sep 2017Officers from the Highland and Islands Division have co-ordinated a multi-agency day of action to tackle suspected underlying criminality within the takeaway and restaurant industry.
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Deadline approaching to register to sell e-cigarettes
Published on 18 Sep 2017Retailers who sell Nicotine Vapour Products (NVPs) have until 30 September 2017 to update the Register of Tobacco and Nicotine Vapour Product Retailers......
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Joint Operation to identify unlicensed HMOs
Published on 8 Sep 2017Following concerns that several flats within Cruickshank Court, Dingwall, were being occupied as unlicensed Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO), the Highland Council’s Environmental Health team led a joint investigation at the property on the evening of 7th September 2017. The investigation was supported by both Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Home Office Immigration.
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Advice after reports of bogus workmen operating in Inverness area
Published on 17 Aug 2017Police in Inverness are urging people to be on their guard after a report of bogus workmen operating in the Culloden area.
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Warning after high value "vishing" frauds in Highland area
Published on 1 Aug 2017Police in the Highlands are urging businesses to be on their guard against vishing and spoofing fraud after a number of businesses were recently defrauded out of almost £2.5million.
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Watch out for fake job offers online
Published on 21 Jul 2017As part of Scam Awareness Month, Caithness Citizens Advice Bureau and Highland Council Trading Standards want to alert young job seekers about the potential pitfalls when applying for jobs.......
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Don’t let Scammers identify you through your mobile number warn Highland Trading Standards
Published on 10 Jul 2017Trading Standards officers at The Highland Council have discovered a new scam threat to local consumers.
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Raigmore Community Council Cold Call Control Zone launch
Published on 22 May 2017As part of Operation Monarda, a national Police Scotland operation aimed at tackling doorstep crime, Raigmore Community Council in partnership with Highland Council Trading Standards and Police Scotland have today (Monday 22 May) launched their Cold Call Control Zone (CCCZ). Covering the whole of the Raigmore area, the CCCZ aims to deter unwanted doorstep callers from calling on the communities 700 plus residents.
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Moray Firth Radio Cash for Kids joins forces with Trading Standards in the Real Deal Scheme
Published on 15 May 2017MFR Cash for Kids Charity Car Boot Sale is the latest recruit to be signed up by Highland Council Trading Standards to join the Real Deal scheme. The scheme was launched six years ago in a bid to stamp out the illegal trade in fake goods at markets and to ensure businesses are fully compliant with the relevant laws.
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Trading Standards take action against Fireplace Business
Published on 12 Apr 2017A Local business has been found in contempt of court after breaching an Enforcement Order previously issued following action taken by Highland Council Trading Standards.
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Police and Trading Standards tackle unlicensed sale of vehicles
Published on 3 Apr 2017Officers from Police Scotland have been working alongside Highland Council's Trading Standards unit as part of a campaign to tackle the unlicensed selling of second hand vehicles.
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Police and Trading Standards tackle unlicensed sale of vehicles
Published on 30 Mar 2017Officers from Police Scotland Highland and Islands Division have been working alongside Highland Council's Trading Standards unit as part of a national campaign to tackle the unlicensed selling of second hand vehicles.
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Reminder to remain vigilant when it comes to door step criminals
Published on 16 Jan 2017Police in the Highlands and Islands are in partnership with Highland Council Trading Standards, advising residents to remain vigilant to door step criminals.
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Smoking in cars with children
Published on 5 Dec 2016A public information campaign has been running on TV and radio in the run-up to the ban, highlighting the harms of second-hand smoke and the penalties for breaking the new law.
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Highland Council Trading Standards warns residents to be on their guard against Council Tax scam telephone calls
Published on 29 Nov 2016The scam involves unsuspecting consumers receiving a phone call from an individual regarding their current council tax bill and if they feel that they are paying too much.
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Trading Standards seeking information from Highland tourist businesses
Published on 4 Nov 2016Highland Council Trading Standards has launched a survey to learn about the online experiences of local tourist businesses
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Guisers beware – Trading Standards say check your fancy dress costume this Halloween
Published on 27 Oct 2016Highland Council Trading Standards are highlighting some top tips to ensure a spooky and fun but safe Halloween.
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Trading Standards raise tumble dryer safety awareness
Published on 27 Sep 2016Highland Council’s Trading Standards team and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service are asking owners of certain tumble dryers to be sure they are aware of some important safety advice issued by a prominent white goods manufacturer.
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Multi-agency day of action
Published on 26 Sep 2016Officers from the Highland and Islands Division have co-ordinated a multi-agency day of action to tackle suspected underlying criminality within the takeaway and restaurant industry.
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Seized televisions recycled by charity
Published on 16 Sep 2016A number of televisions seized by Trading Standards have been sent to a local charity for recycling.
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Warning about phishing scam
Published on 9 Sep 2016NHS Highland has been alerted to a phishing scam happening in the UK which appears to be targeting cardiology patients who have home monitoring.
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Repeat Offender sentenced after Trading Standards take action against sales of designer goods on Facebook
Published on 26 Jul 2016Following a Trading Standards investigation, a 37 year old woman appeared in Inverness Sheriff court for sentencing today after having been found guilty of 15 charges of selling fake designer labelled goods from two addresses in the Highlands.
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Black Isle Show continues to be the ‘Real Deal’
Published on 25 Jul 2016Visitors to the Black Isle Show on the 3rd and 4th August will once again be assured of getting the ‘Real Deal’. Last year Highland Council and the Black Isle Farmers Society made a commitment to keep the show free of fake goods by signing up to the Real Deal markets’ charter.
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Highland householders and small businesses urged to think twice about buying equipment from itinerant traders
Published on 18 Jul 2016Highland Council Trading Standards have seized over 20 items of machinery and equipment
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Take a stand against scams urges Highland Council Trading Standards
Published on 5 Jul 2016As part of the Highland Consumer Partnership, The Highland Council's Trading Standards team and Highland Citizens Advice Bureaux want to encourage everyone to take a stand against Scams
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Trading Standards Supports World Anti-Counterfeiting Day
Published on 7 Jun 2016June 8th is World Anti-Counterfeiting Day 2016 and Trading Standards are warning Highland consumers to beware of buying bogus imitation products. The theme for this year’s event is “Fakes in the sports industries”, to coincide with the EURO 2016 football.
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Watch out for ticketing scams this summer warns Highland Council Trading Standards
Published on 31 May 2016As major music festivals and concerts and sporting events start to get underway, demand for tickets increases over the summer months.
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Highland Council Trading Standards – Non-domestic rates reduction scams warning
Published on 11 Apr 2016Highland Council Trading Standards have warned of 'rates reduction' firms who are targeting local businesses
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Avoid falling foul of financial harm
Published on 17 Mar 2016Staff from a range of agencies who work with vulnerable adults in Highland have been getting training to help prevent people falling foul of financial scams.
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Don’t get ‘spoofed’ by telephone number scams
Published on 27 Jan 2016Highland Council’s Trading Standards team and Caithness Citizens Advice Bureau are warning local consumers to be on their guard against telephone “spoofing” scams.
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Unsafe ‘legal highs’ seized in Highland joint operation
Published on 21 Dec 2015Highland Council Trading Standards, in partnership with Police Scotland, NHS Highland, and the Highland Alcohol and Drug Partnership have been tackling sellers of new psychoactive substances (NPS), also controversially and incorrectly known as ‘legal highs’.
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Caithness trader pleads guilty to selling misdescribed jewellery
Published on 16 Dec 2015May Dixon a resident of Caithness plead guilty at Wick Sheriff Court on Friday 11 December 2015 and was ordered to carry out 72 hours of unpaid work as part of a Community Payback Order.
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Thousands of unsafe 'hoverboards' detained over past seven weeks
Published on 7 Dec 2015More than 17,000 self-balancing scooters – or ‘hoverboards’– have been examined at national entry points since 15 October due to safety concerns*. Of these, over 15,000 (or 88%) have been assessed as
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Know your consumer rights when Christmas shopping – advice from Highland Council Trading Standards
Published on 2 Dec 2015The Highland Council’s Trading Standards team is urging shoppers to know their new consumer rights as the countdown to Christmas gets underway.
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Highland Trading Standards warns of fraudulent refund emails
Published on 26 Nov 2015Highland Council Trading Standards are warning consumers to be on their guard against ‘phishing’ emails purporting to be from Apple iTunes following an increase in enquiries.
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Highland Trading Standards takes enforcement action against local fireplace installer
Published on 23 Nov 2015A local business concerned with the sale and installation of home heating, stoves, fireplaces, bathrooms and renewables has been issued with a court order requiring it to carry out future work with reasonable care and skill and without excessive delays.
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Trading Standards to help Highland businesses provide new consumer rights
Published on 29 Sep 2015On 1 October 2015 the law changes as new consumer rights come into force.
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Multi-agency partners to hold Facebook chat on doorstep crime
Published on 25 Sep 2015As part of a national campaign to raise awareness of doorstep crime, Police Scotland Highland and Islands Division are to host a Facebook chat event with partners from Trading Standards and NHS Highland Tuesday 29th September
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Watch out for telephone ‘disconnection scam’ warns Highland Council Trading Standards
Published on 23 Jul 2015Highland Council Trading Standards have issued a warning of a new twist on previous cold call telephone scams, which has been termed as the ‘disconnection scam’. This recent type of scam can affect both businesses and consumers.
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Black Isle Show is the ‘Real Deal’
Published on 15 Jul 2015Visitors to the Black Isle Show on the 5th and 6th August will be assured of getting the Real Deal after The Highland Council and the Black Isle Farmers Society made a commitment to keep them free of fake goods.
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Beware of hoax lottery scam warns Highland Council Trading Standards
Published on 13 Jul 2015A letter sent to residents across Highland claiming they have won a 'postcode lottery' is a scam.
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Trading Standards and Citizens Advice launch new anti-scams initiative
Published on 6 Jul 2015July is Scams Awareness Month and The Highland Council’s Trading Standards team is joining forces with Citizens Advice Bureaux to warn consumers about the risks of being caught out.
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Highland Trading Standards take action over false advertising
Published on 21 May 2015A local businessman has given a Formal Undertaking in court in Inverness to not mislead consumers following action by Highland Council Trading Standards.
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Cold Call Control Zone Community Toolkit launches on Highland Council website
Published on 12 May 2015The Highland Council will launch their Cold Call Control Zone Community Toolkit tomorrow in a bid to help communities protect themselves from doorstep crime.
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Warning issued over "Microsoft" phone scam in Highlands
Published on 5 May 2015Police are issuing a warning and advice on a phone scam reported to be targeting householders in the Highlands and Islands.
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Operation Monarda update - campaign against bogus callers and associated doorstep crime
Published on 30 Mar 2015As part of Operation Monarda, Police Scotland's campaign against Bogus Callers and associated Doorstep Crime, officers from Police Scotland, VOSA, SEPA and Highland Council Trading Standards, carried out a high visibility operations in both Inverness and Brora last week.
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Highland Businesses warned about “Data Control” Scam
Published on 23 Mar 2015The Highland Council’s Trading Standards team are warning local businesses about a scam that is currently doing the rounds and is targeting small businesses within the Highland area.
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Police Scotland Highland and Islands Division launches Operation Monarda - tackling doorstep crime
Published on 23 Mar 2015Police Scotland Highland and Islands Division today renewed its commitment to eradicating the scourge of doorstep crime and bogus callers.
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Don’t be duped by scam parcel postcards warns Highland Council Trading Standards
Published on 18 Mar 2015Highland Council Trading Standards are aware that Scam postcards are being delivered to residents’ homes claiming that a parcel containing “jewellery” or valuables up to £50 is waiting for the homeowner.
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Trading Standards to host drop-in sessions for home maintenance and improvement businesses
Published on 18 Mar 2015Highland Council Trading Standards are to hold two drop-in sessions aimed at traders who conduct works on domestic properties.
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Trading Standards and Police to host online Facebook chat event on rogue doorstep callers
Published on 18 Mar 2015Highland Council Trading Standards and Police Scotland Highland and Islands Division are to host a Facebook chat event on the topic of rogue traders who call at your door offering to carry out works on your home. The event will take place on Tuesday 24th March at 6pm.
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Highland young consumer team wins local heat
Published on 10 Dec 2014A team from Fortrose Academy are winners of the Highland Young Consumer of the Year Competition 2015 which was held today (Wednesday, 10 December) at The Highland Council Chamber in Inverness.
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Committee concerns over licensed vehicle standards
Published on 17 Nov 2014Highland Council Licensing Committee is voicing its concern that a small number of licensed taxi and PHC operators are failing to take appropriate steps to ensure their vehicles are safe.
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Trading Standards and Citizens Advice tackle private car parking problems
Published on 27 Oct 2014The Highland Council’s Trading Standards Officers are backing local Citizens Advice Bureaux in their campaign to ensure that Highland consumers get a fair deal over private car parking.
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FCA warning against dealing with unauthorised firms
Published on 19 Oct 2014The Financial Conduct Authority has published a statement to warn business owners and investors against dealing with unauthorised firms offering finance to businesses.
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Your right to know all about your car before purchase
Published on 14 Oct 2014If either of the statements, ‘I wish I’d been told about that before I bought my car’ or ‘the car salesman failed to tell me about this…’ sounds familiar – then read on.
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Buying cigarettes for children could cost you a packet
Published on 7 Oct 2014A poster campaign to highlight the risks of buying cigarettes for children has been launched by the Trading Standards services in Highland and Argyll and Bute Councils, in partnership with NHS Highland.
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Prison sentences for three convicted rogue traders in Highland
Published on 3 Oct 2014Three brothers from Inverness were jailed for a total of five-and-a-half years at Dingwall Sheriff Court on Thursday 2 October 2014 for doorstep crime offences, defrauding people in their own homes.
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‘Keep it real in Highland – report fake goods’ says Trading Standards
Published on 30 Sep 2014A quick and easy way to report fake goods online is being launched today (30 September 2014) by Highland Council’s Trading Standards as part of their ongoing battle against product counterfeiting.
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Two day multi-agency operation to combat doorstep crime carried out in Inverness and Fort William
Published on 26 Sep 2014Officers from Police Scotland, VOSA, SEPA and Highland Council Trading Standards, carried out a high visibility operation in both Inverness and Fort William.
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New Trading Standards Institute chairman appointed
Published on 26 Sep 2014Mark McGinty, a Highland Council Trading Standards Team Leader has been announced as the new Chairman of the Trading Standards Institute (TSI).
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Third Inverness community sets up cold call control zone
Published on 16 Sep 2014Dalneigh and Columba Community Council have become the latest community to say “NO” to unwanted doorstep traders by establishing a Cold Call Control Zone.
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Muirtown cold call control zone launched
Published on 8 Sep 2014Residents in the Highfield Avenue and Blarmore Avenue area of Inverness will begin to help tackle the problem of doorstep crime today (Monday 8 September).
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Euromillions FIFA World Cup Online Lottery scam
Published on 1 Aug 2014The Highland Council’s Trading Standards is alerting consumers to be on their guard if they receive a ‘Final Award Notification’ letter address from “Euromillions FIFA World Cup Super-Lottery”.
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Highland Council Trading Standards launch doorstep and distance selling business advice survey
Published on 22 Jul 2014New rules that apply to business activities in an off-premises contract, such online sales, mail order, telephone sales and agreements made in a consumer’s home came into force on 13th June 2014.
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Local rogue builder to appear on BBC How Safe is Your House?
Published on 8 Jul 2014A local Highland builder is to appear in a new BBC rogue trader consumer programme entitled “How Safe is Your House?”
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Seized power tools destroyed
Published on 25 Jun 2014Twenty-five pieces of equipment, including chainsaws, generators and power washers, originally seized by Police from a group of itinerant traders, and that were subsequently found by Highland Council Trading Standards to fail to meet safety standards, are to be destroyed.
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Survey aims to help communities deal with doorstep crime
Published on 24 May 2014The setting up of ‘Cold Call Control Zones’.
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Drop them in it! – Scam Awareness Day in Sutherland
Published on 16 May 2014Most of us have experienced the text, phone call or email that tells us that we have won some mysterious lottery or a prize draw that we just don’t quite remember entering. In the main we recognise these for what they are, a scam!
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Results of campaign against doorstep crime prove to be successful
Published on 28 Apr 2014Campaign against doorstep crime
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Trading Standards to host drop-in sessions to keep itinerant traders legal
Published on 9 Apr 2014Highland Council Trading Standards are holding a drop-in session tomorrow (Thursday 10 April from 3pm - 6pm) aimed at traders who conduct works on domestic properties.
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Police and Trading Standards to host a Facebook chat on doorstep crime
Published on 8 Apr 2014Issued by Police Scotland
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Knock Knock – Make sure you know who's there – Campaign targets doorstep crime
Published on 7 Apr 2014Police Scotland and partners including Trading Standards Officers today, Monday April 7, launch a major national campaign to help beat doorstep crime
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Travelling to Turkey? Don’t be caught out by the new visa system says Trading Standards
Published on 7 Apr 2014The Highland Council’s Trading Standards Officers are warning sun-lovers bound for Turkey not to be caught out by a new visa system which requires for a visa to be applied for before travel.
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Registration reminder for businesses offering credit
Published on 10 Mar 2014The Highland Council’s Trading Standards team is reminding Highland businesses involved in the provision of credit to consumers that they must register by the end of the month.
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Beware energy saving offers that demand upfront fees, but don’t be put off the Green Deal, says Trading Standards
Published on 3 Mar 2014Trading Standards officers with The Highland Council are warning consumers to be wary of paying upfront fees to companies claiming to be offering services connected with the Government’s “Green Deal”
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Still time to vote in Inverness and Loch Ness Tourism Business Improvement District ballot
Published on 27 Feb 2014Businesses located in the proposed Inverness and Loch Ness Tourism Business Improvement District are being reminded that they have until 5.00 pm on Thursday 13 March to return their ballot papers.
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New hard hitting campaign from Scotland’s Councils and Police Scotland aims to firmly shut the door on rogue traders
Published on 25 Feb 2014Councils and Police Scotland have today (Tuesday 25 February) joined forces to launch a new campaign designed to rid Scotland of the blight that is rogue traders who prey on the elderly.
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Thousands of businesses in Scotland may be hit by rip-off delivery charges
Published on 25 Feb 2014Issued by Citizens Advice Scotland Businesses in Scotland are being hit hard by the 'postcode penalty' of high delivery charges – with a new project to assess the scale of the problem announced today
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Police remind public to be cautious following reports of possible bogus callers
Published on 30 Jan 2014Issued by Police Scotland
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Young Highland consumers triumph at quiz
Published on 16 Dec 2013Four young people representing Highland Youth Voice are the winners of the North of Scotland Heat Young Consumer of the Year Competition held on Monday, 16th December at Highland Council Chambers.
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Trading Standards warns local businesses to be wary of telephone cold callers.
Published on 10 Dec 2013Trading Standards Officers at The Highland Council are reminding businesses to be wary of making donations to telephone cold-callers looking for contributions to seemingly good causes. Reports have
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Know your Christmas consumer shopping rights
Published on 25 Nov 2013The Highland Council’s Trading Standards team are keen to inform shoppers of their consumer shopping rights as the countdown to Christmas gets underway. Christmas shopping lists not only include
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Council warns watch out for new BT Scam phone calls
Published on 15 Nov 2013Highland Council Trading Standards are warning consumers that an unsolicited BT telephone scam may be operating again in the area.
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Highland based seller of fake designer labelled goods, convicted at Inverness Sheriff Court
Published on 15 Nov 2013A woman based in the Inverness area was sentenced following conviction at Inverness sheriff Court on the 14th November 2013 for the commission of offences under the Trade Marks Act 1994 for offering o
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College motorists urged to check it, not regret it
Published on 12 Nov 2013Issued by Inverness College UHI
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Power tools sales generate warnings
Published on 2 Oct 2013Trading Standards officers from The Highland Council and Police Scotland are asking Highland residents to think again before they consider buying potentially lethal power tools that are being offered
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New online business advice and information facility launched by Highland Trading Standards
Published on 16 Sep 2013Highland Council’s Trading Standards has today launched a new information website service specifically designed for Highland business and trade users.
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Highland and Islands Police take part in national campaign against bogus callers
Published on 9 Sep 2013Issued by Police Scotland
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Inverness retailers urged to be vigilant for signs of sales for solvent abuse.
Published on 3 Sep 2013The Inverness Community Safety Partnership (ICSP) has launched a challenge to the city’s retailers in response to concerns raised within the Partnership about the level of solvent abuse.
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Warning to avoid loan scam telephone calls and websites
Published on 3 Sep 2013Highland Council’s Trading Standards Team and Nairn Citizens Advice Bureau are warning Highland consumers to look out for scam operators offering loans online and through direct marketing phone call
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Highland Council leads nationwide challenge on Internet Delivery Charges.
Published on 15 Aug 2013The Highland Council’s Trading Standards is at the leading edge of challenging companies on Internet Delivery Charges, members of the Council’s Transport, Environmental and Community Services were
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Avoid unnecessary fees for European Health Insurance Card and UK Passports
Published on 17 Jul 2013Highland Council Trading Standards is warning consumers to be on the lookout for websites demanding a fee when making an application for the NHS European Health Insurance Card (or EHIC) or UK Passport
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Ross-shire residents warned to be on guard against rogue doorstep traders
Published on 11 Jul 2013Trading Standard officers from The Highland Council are calling on residents in the Cromarty Firth area to be on their guard against rogue itinerant traders calling at their door.
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Court action taken against Lochaber builder.
Published on 24 Jun 2013Highland Trading Standards have obtained an Enforcement Order against local builder, Norman Hughes for unfair business practices in Sheriff Court, Fort William.
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Spot Scams! – Stop Scams! Awareness Campaign.
Published on 14 May 2013Partners in consumer education and crime prevention are taking part in a scam awareness event as part of the national Citizens Advice Scam Awareness Campaign 2013.
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Householders warned of rogue traders offering tarmacking services
Published on 24 Apr 2013Trading Standards officers of The Highland Council Standards are warning householders to be on their guard if approached at their home and offered tarmacking.
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Long distance scams … warning from Trading Standards as consumers fall victim to online fraudsters.
Published on 11 Mar 2013Highland Council’s Trading Standards Officers are alerting consumers after online scams lose two individuals a total of £20,000.
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Council warns Highland businesses – don’t be caught out by scammers.
Published on 4 Feb 2013Highland Council’s Trading Standards are warning all Highland businesses to be on their guard against rogue ‘charity’ publishers and operatives that use deliberately misleading sales talk to sel
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Trading Standards warn consumers to avoid on-line fake goods.
Published on 23 Jan 2013Trading Standards Officers at The Highland Council are warning consumers to avoid being stung by sellers of poor quality counterfeit goods online or through social networking sites.
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Inverness residents launch pilot Cold Call Control Zone
Published on 3 Dec 2012The residents in Wimberley Way, Inverness, are to become the first in The Highland Council area to introduce a Cold Calling Control Zone.
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Achieving a fairer deal for Internet shoppers
Published on 15 Nov 2012A campaign spearheaded by The Highland Council to win a fairer deal for consumers over delivery charges for goods bought on the internet, especially for those living in remote communities, is continu
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National Consumer Week focuses on dangers of cold calling
Published on 8 Nov 2012“Cold calling – Don’t buy it” is the theme of this year’s Trading Standards National Consumer Week, which begins on Monday (12 November). The aim is to warn householders of rogue doorstep se
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Highland Trading Standards warn Christmas tree website is bogus.
Published on 1 Nov 2012Highland Council’s Trading Standards service is warning businesses across the UK not to be conned by a scam Christmas tree website which falsely claims links to Inverness and Aviemore.
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Highland Trading Standards Service warn of ‘free insulation’ offers
Published on 10 Oct 2012Trading Standards officers with The Highland Council are warning all residents to be on their guard when answering ‘cold-callers’ at their home offering ‘free home insulation’.
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Breakthrough in delivery charge campaign
Published on 16 Aug 2012The Highland Council has made a breakthrough in its campaign to win a better deal for local consumers over delivery surcharges levied by internet companies.Since starting their investigations, Trading
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Watchdog calls for 21st century revamp of parcel service
Published on 10 Aug 2012Issued by Consumer Focus Scotland
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Highland Trading Standards take action on false advertising
Published on 9 Aug 2012The Highland Council has today secured an order from Inverness Sheriff Court against an Inverness tourist business after an investigation by the council’s Trading Standards Officers that was initiat
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Lighter gas sold to underage volunteer
Published on 10 Jul 2012A fresh warning has gone out to retailers that it is an offence to sell cigarette lighter refills to anyone under the age of 18. This follows a recent undercover test purchasing exercise which resulte
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OFT publishes report on markets in remote communities across UK
Published on 8 Jun 2012Issued by Office of Fair Trading
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Beware of ‘Ukash Vouchers’ scam loan telephone calls targeting the Highlands warns Highland Council Trading Standards
Published on 31 May 2012Highland Council’s Trading Standards are concerned about recent complaints relating to ‘cold call telephone calls’ offering loans.
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Test purchase volunteers sought
Published on 28 May 2012The Highland Council’s Trading Standards are seeking young people to help them to check that businesses are not selling age-restricted products to those under the minimum age.
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Drop them in it! – Scam Awareness at Eastgate Centre, Inverness
Published on 21 May 2012Throughout May, The Highland Council’s Trading Standards officers are taking part in the ‘Scamnesty 2012’ national campaign in a bid to end the scourge of mass marketed scam mailings targeting U
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Highland Council Trading Standards warn of potentially dangerous bracelets
Published on 24 Apr 2012The Highland Council’s Trading Standards is warning of potentially dangerous bracelets that have been sold in the Highlands which may contain deadly plant seeds.
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Mis-sold Payment Protection Insurance – free advice is available
Published on 3 Apr 2012Consumers, unhappy about being mis-sold Payment Protection Insurance, could save themselves money by making a claim for a refund themselves rather than paying a claims company to recover monies due.
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Solvent sales advice for retailers
Published on 27 Mar 2012Retailers in Caithness and Sutherland are being issued with guidance on the sale of solvents following an increase in the number of solvent abuse cases being reported among young people in the north.
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Partnership initiative to tackle doorstep crime
Published on 23 Mar 2012A multi-agency initiative to protect the most vulnerable members of the Inverness Community from doorstep crime was launched today (22 March) at Trading Standards offices, Harbour Road, Inverness.
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Internet traders fail to make the grade on delivery charges
Published on 9 Mar 2012A report to The Highland Council’s Transport Environmental and Community Services Committee on Thursday 16 March has identified that the Internet trading activities of almost 200 businesses across t
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OFT seeks views from Highland residents
Published on 8 Mar 2012Issued by: Office of Fair Trading
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Steer clear of potential loan scams warns Highland Trading Standards
Published on 5 Mar 2012The Highland Council’s Trading Standards are warning consumers to be on their guard against cold call telephone calls offering loans.
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“Watch out for fake goods and bogus websites this Christmas” warns Highland Council Trading Standards
Published on 15 Nov 2011The Highland Council Trading Standards Service is warning consumers not to be duped into buying counterfeit sports clothes and equipment from bogus websites, as part of the National Consumer Week 2011
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Launch of Internet delivery charges survey
Published on 9 Nov 2011In order to understand the extent of the problem of Internet delivery charges, The Highland Council’s Trading Standards team are looking to gather evidence from Highland consumers and small business
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Shops pass under-age fireworks sales tests
Published on 8 Nov 2011Trading Standards of The Highland Council are praising the vigilence of Highland retailers following a recent test-purchasing exercise in which no sales of fireworks were made to an under-age voluntee
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Highland householders advised to research solar panel deals
Published on 13 Oct 2011The benefits associated with the increased use of solar panels and other renewable energy sources in homes are clearly recognised by The Highland Council.
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Police and Trading Standards warn of possible scam
Published on 11 Oct 2011Northern Constabulary and The Highland Council are warning the public of a possible 'scam' after receiving reports from people who recently responded to a 'mystery shoppers' advert in a local newspape
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Inverness holidaymakers warned, don't make fake goods your excess baggage.
Published on 7 Oct 2011Issued by Scottish Crime and Drug Enforcement Agency
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Fixed penalty notices served in under-age tobacco sales exercise
Published on 26 Sep 2011As a result of a test-purchase exercise undertaken across the Highlands that used the services of a young volunteer, The Highland Council Trading Standards has recently issued two fixed penalties for
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Highland tobacco retailers urged to register
Published on 16 Sep 2011The Highland Council’s Trading Standards is reminding all businesses selling tobacco that they have less than three weeks to register with the Scottish Government if they wish to continue to sell to
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Highland Council Black Isle Show competition winners announced
Published on 24 Aug 2011The winners of competitions and a prize draw organised by The Highland Council at the Black Isle Show have been announced.
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Warning on new council tax phone scam
Published on 22 Aug 2011Trading Standards Officers from The Highland Council are warning residents that a Council Tax scam may be operating in the region.
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Doorstep campaign supported by Council
Published on 20 Jul 2011The Highland Council is working with the Office of Fair Trading to warn the public of doorstep visits from rogue traders offering to carry out home repairs and gardening work. They are urging househ
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Trading Standards warn of potentially dangerous giant cigarette lighters
Published on 1 Jul 2011The Highland Council’s Trading Standards are warning the public of the potential dangers of some extra large cigarette lighters after finding some on sale in the Highlands which have failed safety t
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Don’t be caught out by bogus holiday clubs and scams warns Highland Council Trading Standards
Published on 29 Jun 2011Advice and Enforcement staff from The Highland Council’s Trading Standards will be on hand this weekend at Inverness Airport to offer advice and information to Highland holidaymakers heading for the
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Delivery charges discussed with MP
Published on 3 Jun 2011The challenges of tackling problems faced by Highland consumers in both identifying and understanding delivery charges made by internet and mail order traders was highlighted at a meeting today (Frida
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Highland householders warned to be on guard against doorstep rogue itinerant traders.
Published on 5 May 2011Trading Standard officers from The Highland Council are calling on residents to be on their guard against rogue itinerant traders calling door at their door.
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The Highland Council secures a court order against local hotel
Published on 25 Mar 2011As a result of an investigation by Trading Standards Officers of The Highland Council into complaints received over significant period time about the Polmaily House Hotel, near Drumnadrochit, and th
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Council Convener warns of Euro millions Lottery scam
Published on 17 Mar 2011Convener of The Highland Council, Councillor Sandy Park is warning people in the Highlands not to be duped by unsolicited letters informing them that they are winners of the Euro millions Lottery.
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Council backs Fairtrade Fortnight
Published on 24 Feb 2011The Highland Council is supporting Fairtrade Fortnight, which runs from 28 February to 13 March. A number of schools are hosting events and there will be a display of Fairtrade products at Council h
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Scams alert campaign launched by Highland Council Trading Standards
Published on 31 Jan 2011Highland Council Trading Standards in partnership with The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) annual Scams Awareness Month is reminding consumers to be ever vigilant against possible scams.
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Council to step up vigilance on tobacco sales and counterfeit products
Published on 21 Jan 2011Trading standards officers at The Highland Council are set to step up their vigilance on the sale and marketing of tobacco as the result of new legislative changes being introduced by the Scottish Gov
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Local jewellery firm convicted of selling unhallmarked jewellery
Published on 4 Jan 2011TEK Jewellery Ltd trading as Lapis Gold pled guilty to selling unhallmarked gold jewellery at Inverness Sheriff Court this week and was fined £900.
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Golspie group’s success in anti-smoking competition
Published on 16 Dec 2010A Golspie youth Group has won a £500 award in a national anti-smoking competition; “The Crofton Award for best newcomer”.
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Crimestoppers cracks down on counterfeiting in the Highlands
Published on 22 Nov 2010Scotland Crimestoppers launched a campaign this week in the Highlands to tackle counterfeiting and raise awareness of the more serious links it has to organised crime.
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Illegal fireworks sales to children
Published on 29 Oct 2010A fresh warning has gone out to those involved in the sale of fireworks that it is an offence to sell fireworks to anyone under 18 years of age. This follows an undercover test purchasing exercise ove
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Evanton student is National e-Consumer Week prize draw winner
Published on 27 Oct 2010Inverness College student, Lucy Wilson from Evanton has won the ‘Free Pizza and Movie Night for Two’ prize draw held as part of National e-Consumer Week by Highland Council Trading Standards Servi
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Don’t be caught out by ‘free’ offers and trials online warns Highland Council Trading Standards
Published on 30 Sep 2010Highland Council Trading Standards are warning other consumers to be on their guard when responding to online classified adverts or advertising features after hearing from Highland consumer, Ms Jessic
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National e-Consumer Week 2010 - Students stay safe online with internet shopping tips
Published on 14 Sep 2010As part of National Consumer Week 2010, Highland Council Trading Standards is raising awareness with students in Inverness on how to be safe shoppers online.
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Crack down on hardline debt collectors
Published on 12 Aug 2010Trading Standards Officers have joined forces with Money Advice Service colleagues on The Highland Council to tackle the “unacceptable and aggressive practices” of debt collectors. Gordon Robb, p
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Council Tax rebate scam
Published on 9 Aug 2010The Highland Council’s Finance and Trading Standards teams have been alerted to the fact that Highland residents are currently being targeted by a Council Tax rebate scam.
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Highland residents warned to be on guard against free home alarm offers
Published on 7 Jul 2010Highland Council Trading Standards are warning all residents to be on their guard when answering ‘cold-call’ telephone sales calls offering a ‘free home fire and security survey’, if they agre
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Consumers warned to be on their guard for doorstep callers in the Highlands.
Published on 10 May 2010Highland Council Trading Standard Service is calling on consumers, to be on their guard against rogue itinerant traders calling door to door.
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Highland Trading Standards Officers alert public to resurgence of free alarm offers
Published on 19 Feb 2010Highland consumers are being ‘cold called’ at home with the promise of free household alarm systems. However, the offer may sound too good to be true and Highland Council Trading Standards Servi
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Business as usual during streetscape works
Published on 9 Feb 2010Work began this week on the second phase of a £947,000 package of town centre improvements in Dingwall.
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Drop in and drop them in it – Highland Council Trading Standards Scam Watch Campaign launched.
Published on 27 Jan 2010Throughout February 2010, Highland Council Trading Standards are taking part in the ‘Scamnesty 2010’ national campaign in a bid to end the scourge of mass marketed scams mailings targeting UK cons
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Food hygiene failure proves costly for restaurant owner
Published on 21 Jan 2010The operator of the Shapla Tandoori Restaurant and take-away at 2 Castle Road, Inverness has been prosecuted this week after Highland Council environmental health officers uncovered a catalogue of poo
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Council warns be careful cyber shopping and beware of counterfeit goods
Published on 14 Dec 2009The Highland Council’s Trading Standards are advising consumers to buy from reputable websites and be wary of websites selling cheap designer goods, DVDs, CDs etc as they may turn out to by counterf
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Savvy students are at the cutting edge in young consumer rights competition
Published on 11 Dec 2009Four pupils of Dingwall Academy have retained the North of Scotland Young Consumer of the Year Competition held on Friday 11th December at The Highland Council Chamber, Inverness.
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Savvy shopper Catherine – knows her consumer rights
Published on 3 Dec 2009Inverness shopper, Catherine Mackie, won top prize in The Highland Council Trading Standards ‘Know Your Consumer Rights Quiz’ held during National Consumer Week 2009 at Eastgate Shopping Centre, I
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Home reports: a year of change for house sellers and buyers
Published on 30 Nov 2009On the first anniversary of the introduction of Home Reports for house sales, Trading Standards Officers at The Highland Council are reporting a relatively smooth implementation of the new regime in t
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Highland Trading Standards targets Internet sellers
Published on 26 Nov 2009A new survey conducted by Trading Standards Officers from The Highland Council has found two-thirds of websites failing to comply with laws designed to protect on-line buyers. North consumers are es
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Highland Libraries issue health and safety warning
Published on 19 Nov 2009The Highland Council’s Libraries Service and Highland Trading Standards are issuing a warning this week to parents and carers of children who have received blue bear soft toys from the Council’s L
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Consumer protection and money advice on the agenda
Published on 17 Nov 2009Consumer protection and money advice are the main topics for consideration at the next meeting of The Highland Council’s Ward Forum for Ward 22 (Fort William and Ardnamurchan) with presentations fro
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Free offer should ring alarm bells
Published on 2 Nov 2009Highland Council Trading Standards Service is warning householders to be on their guard if they receive a phone call informing them that they have won a free house alarm. Unsuspecting consumers ar
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Holidaymakers urged to shop around for the best bureaux de change rate deals
Published on 30 Sep 2009Trading Standards Officers with The Highland Council are advising holidaymakers and travellers to shop around for the best deals when buying their holiday money from local bureaux de change outlets.
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Forum focuses on city environment
Published on 23 Sep 2009The Highland Council is hosting a city forum on the work of Transport, Environmental and Community Services in Inverness Town House, on Thursday 1 October 2009, starting at 7 pm.
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False claims to claim your money back
Published on 17 Sep 2009The Highland Council’s Trading Standards are asking members of the public to beware following recent reported incidents about companies seeking business by saying they can ‘assist claims’ that c
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Business As Usual During Streetscape Works
Published on 16 Sep 2009Work has started on the first phase of a £947,000 package of town centre improvements in Dingwall.
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Shoppers know their rights with The Highland Council’s Trading Standards
Published on 14 Sep 2009Trading Standards officers from The Highland Council opened their stall to shoppers today, (Monday, 14th September, 09) at the Eastgate Centre, Inverness, to advise them about their rights. The week
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Know Your Rights – National Consumer Week Campaign at Eastgate Centre, Inverness
Published on 7 Sep 2009Shoppers visiting the Eastgate Centre can visit a Highland Council Trading Standards stall and find out about their shoppers rights. National Consumer Week 2009, which begins on Monday, 14th Septemb
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Highland consumers warned of credit card online purchasing
Published on 7 Sep 2009A Skye consumer and The Highland Council’s Trading Standards Officers are warning people during National Consumer Week 14th - 18th September to be wary of online purchasing with credit cards through
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Restaurant Owner fined £2,250 for poor hygiene standards
Published on 20 Aug 2009The former owner of a now closed, Indian restaurant and take-away has been prosecuted by The Highland Council after Environmental Health Officers found poor hygiene conditions.
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Anti-counterfeit work wins award for The Highland Council
Published on 13 Aug 2009The Highland Council has received a Certificate of Excellence for its work relating to authenticity testing of branded spirits.
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Trading Standards Warn of £3million Bogus Car Buyer Scam
Published on 28 May 2009Highland Council’s Trading Standards team is participating in an Office of Fair Trading (OFT) campaign to warn consumers about bogus car buyer scams which cost UK consumers nearly £3 million every
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Council Warns Residents To Be Alert
Published on 13 May 2009Trading Standards officers of The Highland Council have issued a warning to the public to take great care before agreeing to any work on their house or garden by any itinerant businesses.
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Doorstep sellers in Highland capital:
Published on 1 Apr 2009Highland Council Trading Standards are asking members of the public to be vigilant following recent report about a double glazing doorstep selling firm operating in the Inverness area.
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Dingwall Academy Second Top Team In Scotland
Published on 30 Mar 2009Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Dave Thompson hosted and played quizmaster to the Young Consumers of the Year Scottish Final in the Parliament last night (24 March). Four teams earned their place in
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Two arrested for counterfeit games and illegal chipping service
Published on 18 Feb 2009Raids on two separate addresses to investigate an illegal counterfeiting operation has lead to the arrest of two people in the Scottish Highlands. Further to Friday’s raids, a large number of items
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Beware of online puppy scammers! – Highland Trading Standards warns consumers.
Published on 10 Feb 2009Online classified advertisements do offer an easy and sometimes free means of advertising goods for consumers. However, they can also be a means for traders to disguise themselves as ‘private seller
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Don't fall foul of the scammers
Published on 2 Feb 2009Issued jointly by The HIghland Council and the Office of Fair Trading
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Electronic Cigarette Refill Cartridges Withdrawn from Sale
Published on 19 Dec 2008Following investigations by Highland Council Trading Standards Officers into the safety of the refill cartridges for an “Electronic Cigarette” product being sold in Inverness under the “Mini Cig
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Shoppers urged to ensure sale bargains measure up
Published on 18 Dec 2008The Highland Council is offering advice to shoppers ahead of the Christmas sales, reminding them that they have the same rights when they buy goods in a sale as at any other time of year. Some tips of
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Health board’s concern at high pressure sales tactics
Published on 16 Dec 2008Issued by NHS Highland NHS Highland is advising members of the public that it never provides the details of patients to commercial companies selling products.
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Students Know Their Rights In Young Consumer Competition
Published on 15 Dec 2008Four pupils from Dingwall Academy are the winners of the North of Scotland Heat of the Young Consumer of the Year Competition held on Friday 12th December at The Highland Council Chambers, Inverness.
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How to be a "savvy shopper" this Christmas! - Know your shopping rights!
Published on 17 Nov 2008With only a few weeks left to shop till you drop, Highland Council’s Trading Standards in partnership with Consumer Direct Scotland want to take the opportunity to give Christmas consumers some time
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Big Hearted Highland Businesses Are Warned About School Scams
Published on 21 Oct 2008The Highland Council is warning Highland businesses not to be duped after complaints that several companies have received bogus high pressure sales telephone calls requesting them to sponsor leaflets,
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Highland Trading Standards welcome new doorstep selling rules
Published on 1 Oct 2008Cooling off periods and cancellation rights have been simplified for doorstep selling rules by new legislation which takes effect from 1st October 2008.
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Trading Standards clamp down on disguised car dealers
Published on 27 Jun 2008Trading Standards Officers from The Highland Council are targeting suspected car dealers posing as private individuals who are using car parks and other public spaces to advertise their vehicles for s
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Rogue traders on the run as new consumer protection legislation introduced
Published on 11 Jun 2008Consumer protection law has been shaken-up this month as new regulations have been introduced to combat rogue traders and unfair practices.
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Consumers Warned to be on their Guard from Rogue Doorstep Traders
Published on 25 Apr 2008Trading Standards officers of The Highland Council are advising the public to show the door to itinerant traders, who offer to carry out a range of work on the home. And residents should not hesitat
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Kinlochleven students get to grips with mobile phone scams
Published on 26 Feb 2008Students from Kinlochleven High School are to take part in Highland Scam Awareness Month by testing their skills at spotting mobile phone scams. Pupils are taking part in a quiz organised by Trading S
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Highland Focus on Scams Awareness Month
Published on 11 Feb 2008Trading Standards Officers of The Highland Council are taking part in a national campaign – Scams Awareness Month - to crack down on the misery and heartache caused by unscrupulous scammers, whose s
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12 Tips for Christmas Shoppers
Published on 14 Dec 2007Trading Standards Officers of The Highland Council have provided 12 handy tips to help the public avoid the pitfalls of Christmas shopping. They are: -
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National Consumer Week 12th - 16th November 2007
Published on 12 Nov 2007As part of National Consumer Week, Highland Council’s Trading Standards Officers are keeping on top of auction internet selling by protecting consumer rights online.
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Highland Welcomes Tougher Laws on Tobacco Sales
Published on 1 Oct 2007Legislation introduced today (Monday) which prevents retailers from selling tobacco products to anyone under 18 years of age is being strongly supported in the Highlands, with The Highland Council p
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Smoking Enforcement Officers to target taxis and work vehicles
Published on 28 Aug 2007Following the success of the smoking ban in public houses, hotels, restaurants, shops and other workplaces, The Highland Council’s Smoking Enforcement Officers are set to target taxis and works’ v
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Legionnaires' Disease Outbreak Team Meets
Published on 9 Jul 2007The Outbreak Control Team investigating four Legionnaires’ Disease cases has met for the fourth time.
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Council warns on-line buyers to beware!
Published on 27 Jun 2007Trading Standards Officers at The Highland Council are calling on consumers to be on their guard when buying on the internet after a survey highlighted that 40% of on-line business failed to fully com
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Trading Standards Renew Warning to Shopkeepers following Convictions
Published on 28 Mar 2007Trading Standards officers have warned shopkeepers that they intend to maintain their test purchasing programmes to weed out those who sell cigarettes to children under 16.
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Public Urged To Be On Their Guard Against Romanian Street Traders Selling Fake Gold Jewellery
Published on 21 Mar 2007The Highland Council’s Trading Standards Unit and Northern Constabulary are urging the public to be on their guard against Romanian street traders who are operating in the Highlands.
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Public Urged To Be On Guard Against Rogue Salesmen
Published on 26 Feb 2007Householders in Inverness are being warned to be on their guard against salesmen known to be operating door-to-door offering to carry out window replacement work.
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Before you Spend, Spend, Spend this Christmas – know your shopping rights
Published on 11 Dec 2006With only two weeks before Christmas Day, The Highland Council’s Trading Standards Officers are advising shoppers during this busy time to be aware of their consumer rights.
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School students know their rights in young consumer competition
Published on 8 Dec 2006Four pupils of Dingwall Academy are the winners of the North of Scotland Heat Young Consumer of the Year Competition held on Friday 8th December at Highland Council Chambers, in Inverness.
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Council invites Highlanders to enter Young Consumers of the Year Competition 2007
Published on 2 Oct 2006Young people in the Highlands are being urged by Highland Council’s Trading Standards Service to get their application forms in for the Young Consumers of the Year Competition 2007 by this Saturday
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No more excuses for underage sales
Published on 24 May 2006Following the recent conviction of two Highland businesses and fines imposed totalling £800, a senior Highland Councillor and the Council’s Chief Trading Standards Officer are urging all businesses
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Bogus Home Working Schemes And Business Opportunities Targeted
Published on 3 May 2006The Highland Council’s Trading Standards team recently participated in a nationwide internet sweep examining working from home business opportunities during which over 1000 internet sites were exami
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Survey Highlights Need For Review Of Internet buying
Published on 21 Apr 2006A nationwide survey of internet shopping, involving Trading Standards officers with The Highland Council, has highlighted the need for the Government, trade organisations and those who deliver items s
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Underage sales of fireworks
Published on 19 Apr 2006Firework test purchases at 23 firework retailers in the Highlands using a number of young volunteers, aged 15 and 16, have revealed a failure of three retailers in Highland to restrict the sale of fir
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Trading Standards in a puff over pubs
Published on 19 Apr 2006A recent survey by Trading Standards Officers with The Highland Council has revealed pub vending machines could be seriously undermining efforts to prevent underage tobacco sales.
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Young Pretenders Crowned Consumer Kings
Published on 18 Apr 2006MOVE over Nicky Campbell – these youngsters proved they know how to shoot down the cowboys when they were crowned consumer kings.
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Public Urged To Be On Guard Against Rogue Itinerant Traders
Published on 12 Apr 2006Householders in the Highlands are being warned to be on their guard against workmen and itinerant traders known to be operating door-to-door offering to carry out house maintenance and repairs.
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Consumers Warned To Be Alert
Published on 11 Apr 2006During National Scam Awareness Month, The Highland Council’s Trading Standards Officers have been warning consumers and community groups not to fall victim to marketing scams and passing on useful t
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Scam Awareness Month
Published on 11 Apr 2006The Highland Council’s Trading Standards team is taking part in Scam Awareness Month which is an international campaign running throughout February aimed at arming consumers with skills and knowledg
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