POLICE have issued a warning about travelling tradesman after an elderly Portland woman was driven to a bank on Monday to get out cash.
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Portland Sergeant Martin Flannery said police recommended that to ensure safety people did not get in stranger's vehicle to go and get money.
He said anyone with concerns should consult with a a family member and use a local tradesman with a good reputation.
"Anyone with concerns about their safety should always call police," he said.
"In this instance the travelling tradesman had a bussiness card with an ABN. The elderly woman was canvassed about roof restorations and driveway cleaning. Detectives spoke to the man."
Sergeant Flannery said when the woman was pressured to get money, that a family member got involved and got the money back.
He said anyone with issues related to travelling tradesmen should contact Consumers Affairs or visit the wesite www.consumer.vic.gov.au
That website warned that travelling tradesmen/conmen usually ask for cash before starting work and frequently disappear as soon they received that money.
If they do any work, it is often unfinished or of a poor standard.
They move quickly and usually only give a first name and mobile number - so contacting them afterwards is difficult, the website warned.