Warning over fake “government” doorstep broadband sellers in Norfolk UK

The Norfolk County Council‘s (NCC) Trading Standards department has issued a new “Cold Calling Alert” that warns local people to be on the lookout after several cases of fake doorstep sellers trying to peddle broadband services were reported in the region.

According to the notice, three people wearing orange hi-vis vests have recently been going door-to-door in the King’s Lynn area. The cold callers were making claims about being part of a “Government broadband scheme” and were attempting to take payments from residents to “register” for the scheme. Sadly this is by no means the first time we’ve heard about such doorstep scams (another example).

At present there are a number of government-funded broadband schemes (most do not require payments from homeowners). But the most plausible Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme (GBVS) is now closed to new applications and, in any case, this is setup to supply grants to home owners and not take payments directly at the door. The vouchers are normally processed online through registered broadband suppliers.

In fairness, some broadband providers do use legitimate doorstep marketing strategies, especially when attempting to build awareness and take-up once a new network has been deployed in your area. However, legitimate marketing activity usually respects your privacy and boundaries, while doorstep cold calling often relies on high-pressure, unsolicited face-to-face interactions.

Speaking personally, the best response is always to politely decline any door-to-door sales activity, regardless of whether or not you think its legitimate. Ask for a leaflet so you can do your own research, if you wish, but never give out your personal or financial details at the door, allow them access to your property or agree to further visits.

Anyone sighting doorstep cold callers in Norfolk should contact the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on freephone 0808 223 1133 or Norfolk Constabulary via 101. If you feel intimidated or sight doorstep cold callers and are concerned for vulnerable neighbours, call 999 if it appears to be an emergency.