{"id":77585,"date":"2016-12-25T09:30:07","date_gmt":"2016-12-25T09:30:07","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/mostafa.openonline.co.uk\/?guid=67a7f6294b9ae7cf320330fccbc43346"},"modified":"2016-12-25T09:30:07","modified_gmt":"2016-12-25T09:30:07","slug":"press-release-scam-warning-issued-as-company-targeting-the-elderly-is-shut-down","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mostafa.openonline.co.uk\/?p=77585","title":{"rendered":"Press release: Scam warning issued as company targeting the elderly is shut down"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Souza Healthcare Ltd, a London-based company, that sold overpriced health supplements, specifically targeting elderly and vulnerable consumers was wound up by the High Court following an investigation by the Insolvency Service.<\/p>\n

The company\u2019s sales representatives had made inaccurate claims about health benefits and pain reduction qualities of the health supplements, falsely implied that they had medical experience and claimed to be calling on behalf of medical organisations. The investigation found that the company\u2019s customers, some of whom were suffering from severe medical conditions including Cerebral Palsy and Dementia, were subjected to lengthy unsolicited telesales calls from call centres in in Goa and Mumbai.<\/p>\n

Business Minister Margot James said:<\/p>\n

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Unfortunately, companies seeking to rip-off older people are nothing new and pray on their politeness in not wanting to say no.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

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Victims are paying a lot and get nothing in return. The old adage remains true: if something seems too good to be true, it very often is.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

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The worst aspect of this type of scam is that due to their age, the majority of victims will never be able to make good their loss.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Previous Insolvency Service investigations have led to companies who targeted vulnerable consumers selling mobility scooters, hearing aids, home alarm systems, heritage coins and plots of land being wound up in the public interest.<\/p>\n

Age UK has published eight tips for the elderly and their carers to help spot potential scammers and keep themselves safe:<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t rush into anything<\/h4>\n

Scammers try to rush people into making quick decisions by claiming that a great offer or investment is time-limited. Don\u2019t be rushed and seek advice first. Ask your family and friends what they think or call an advice agency such as Citizens Advice Consumer Service<\/a> on 03454 04 05 06. For suspected pension scams call The Pensions Advisory Service<\/a> on 0300 123 1047.<\/p>\n

Make sure the company is reputable<\/h5>\n

Before you commit to buying, check the seller. Does the company have a contact number that works and a postal address, and is it a member of a trade association? Financial companies must be authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) \u2013 you can check the FCA register online<\/a> or call them on 0800 111 6768.<\/p>\n

Know who\u2019s on your doorstep<\/h4>\n

When answering the door to an unexpected caller, remember: Lock, Stop, Chain, Check:<\/p>\n