TRADING standards chiefs are urging consumers to use an innovative crime-fighting website to report cowboy traders.
The site www.ripofftipof-f.net was launched in January and gives people a chance to tell industry watchdogs about rogue traders they suspect are ripping off the public.
The scheme is the result of work between trading standards services across the country and the Department of Trade and Industry. Its work has been praised by City of York Council.
The site has already received more than 160,000 hits and 400 tips from sharp-eyed consumers all over the country, generating valuable information about rip-off merchants and their methods.
The top five areas of trading cons reported to the "rip-off tip-off" team have related to websites, cars, advertising, counterfeit goods and rogue builders.
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