Would-be ‘fishmongers’ have been conning people in rural Angus by selling their catch at inflated prices.
Trading Standards and Police Scotland are now urging residents to be wary of the crooks and their doorstep fish scam.
One resident paid hundreds of pounds for a quantity of fish that turned out to be worth far less when it was weighed by Angus Council’s own weights and measures inspectors.
Incidents have been reported across Scotland where unscrupulous doorstep fish sellers have used aggressive sales tactics to try and off-load poor quality fish at over the odds prices.
The fish hasn’t been properly stored and isn’t properly packed.
It is often elderly and more vulnerable residents who are targeted with these and bullied into buying.
A spokesman for Angus Council said: “People have paid too much, been forced into taking more fish than they need and even misled about the type of fish they’ve been sold.
“Please don’t buy anything from anyone who arrives unannounced at your door.
“If a trader calls and makes you feel uncomfortable, politely ask them to leave, or close the front door.
“Contact a relative, friend or neighbour for support.
“If you want to report a suspicious rogue trader, call Police Scotland on 101.
“If you have recently received a visit from a rogue fish traders then please call the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 04 05 06.”
