Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) is issuing a warning to local businesses across the Bath and North East Somerset area which may be targeted by fraudsters.
In recent weeks AF&RS has been contacted by a number of local businesses with details of a suspected scam.
Director of Corporate Services Lorraine Houghton said: “We have been contacted by local businesses which have been called by people claiming to be working on behalf of AF&RS.
“They have attempted to sell adverting space in publications and calendars on our behalf.
“Avon Fire & Rescue Service does not employ anyone to sell advertising space in any publication on our behalf.
“We are funded through Central Government and local Council Tax and do not use advertising as a revenue generator.
“We would advise anyone who receives a call of this nature to contact Trading Standards in their local area.”
A spokesperson for Bristol Trading Standards said: “Scammers will appear to associate themselves with individuals or organisations that are highly respected, well-known or in a position of authority.
“This can make victims feel more comfortable about agreeing to hand over their money.
“For example, advertising scams often claim to be connected with, or approved by, police, fire or health services.
“Sometimes scams will make reference to government or local authority schemes, or to new legislation, in order to make their offers appear genuine.
“The majority of publishers and suppliers to businesses are reputable; however, some resort to dishonesty for illicit gains.
“Rogue publishers make huge sums of money by inducing large numbers of victims to pay for adverts in publications that do not exist, or are not what people are led to believe.”
