TRADERS are being urged to be on their guard against bogus officials.
The trading standards department at Stockton Borough Council has received a number of reports that people posing as trading standards officers are attempting to con their way into shops and take away goods.
David Kitching, the council's trading standards and licensing manager, said: "If a trader is in any doubt they can phone the council's switchboard, on (01642) 393939, to confirm the identity of the officer."
Incidents can be reported to trading standards or the police.
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