KENT Trading Standards officials are warning residents across the county to guard against a spate of unsolicited cold calls from a security firm.

The phone calls come from a security systems company that reportedly uses very hard sell tactics and lies in order to obtain an appointment at the consumer’s home.

Trading Standards, part of KCC, said the firm appears to be targeting people who already have a burglar alarm system, and employ scare tactics about increases in crime in the resident’s immediate locality and offer up to £1,500 worth of free equipment if the appointment is made.

The firm also claims its systems are connected to Kent Police stations so that in the event an alarm is raised, the police will attend as a rapid response, but Kent Police have confirmed they have no connection with the company.

Anyone receiving calls from firms like this is urged to report the incident to Trading Standard immediately.

Customers are reminded that should an appointment be made as a result of an unsolicited telephone call, it is important to note they are entitled to a seven day cancellation period. Should the trader fail to give a notice of cancellation, any contract will be unenforceable.

Anyone with information regarding this company or who is aware of a similar incident and requires further advice is asked to call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.