on con alert

LEIGH businesses are still being bombarded with mailshots from dodgy data protection agencies claiming over-the-odds fees for DIY services.

The number of calls to Wigan Council's Trading Standards department has prompted fresh warnings to companies not to be taken in by the scam.

Consumer watchdogs first cried foul in October when the con, in which businesses receive unsolicited mail from agencies who have tagged the words 'data protection' into their titles, came to light.

The notification advises that every business has a legal duty to notify the information commissioner when processing personal information, unless they are exempt, and asks businesses to complete forms and register.

Service

The agencies typically charge up to £100 for this "service" warning that there could be fines of up to £5,000 for people failing to act.

Chief trading standards officer Alan Blundell said: "These people are very persistent and we have already sent out a warning. They sound official but don't let this fool you."

Anyone who receives an approach from these agencies or who would like more information can call trading standards officers on 01942 827666.