Warrington and Halton Trading Standards would like to make iCAN members aware that there have been a number of distraction burglaries reported to Cheshire Police.

On each occasion callers posing as Water Board Officials gained access to properties in both the Great Sankey and Orford areas of Warrington on the pretence of needing to check water pressure. An amount of money has been reported missing from the house in Great Sankey. Both incidents occurred yesterday, Wednesday 16 June 2010.

If you were visited by anyone claiming to be from the Water Board or maybe noticed callers going door to door in your area, please report your suspicions to Cheshire Police on 0845 4580000

Please be on your guard against this type of crime. Distraction burglars will use all kinds of lies to try and gain access they can be male or female, old and young, even children. Use your door chain and ask to see photographic identification.

You can check the callers validity by contacting United Utilities on 0845 7462200 and press option 1 from the menu. No genuine caller will mind waiting while you do this, remember never use the number provided by an unsolicited caller to check authenticity. If you have any doubts whatsoever do not allow access and contact the Police immediately.

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Several residents, who are currently registered with the free facility provided by the Telephone Preference Service, have reported receiving a call from a similar sounding organisation asking for a subscription of £19.95

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Trading Standards has received a number of complaints from consumers who have been pursued by debt collectors for debts that they do not owe. Please be aware that anyone seeking to recover a debt from you must be able to prove that you actually owe it.

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It has been brought to the attention of Warrington and Halton Trading Standards that a scam email appearing to come from PayPal is in circulation.

Please do not respond in anyway to this email. Never provide any information. Never click on any link that seems suspicious. Remember, when it comes to phishing, you are in control.

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If you are over 50, living in Halton and need a free helping hand to a healthier lifestyle then Diamond Lives co-ordinated by Age Concern Mid Mersey is there to support you.

An advisor can plan a lifestyle programme for individuals and community groups designed to help increase mobility, reduce the risk of falls, control weight, and increase the opportunity to socialise.

A small change can bring health benefits and may change your life.

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