BEWARE OF DIGITAL TV SCAM
Bob Baldwin, Member for Paterson has today urged local residents to be on the lookout for door-to-door traders who claim they are from the Government and try to sell digital television set top boxes.
‘This is a scam arising from the digital switchover,’ said Mr Baldwin.
As the Rudd Labor Government intends to switch off the analogue signal by 2013, residents will need to purchase either a digital set top box or a television with a built-in digital tuner.
‘Some opportunistic traders have now been reported for going door-to-door, offering consumers a fake Government rebate if they purchase one of their set top boxes.
‘Unfortunately, these set top boxes may not work and consumers are left out of pocket, with faulty goods and no Government compensation.
‘Just like the Rudd Labor Government’s Home Insulation Scheme, this program has been left open for rorting and residents need to be careful so they aren’t ripped off,’ said Mr Baldwin.
Fears over this scam are the latest to arise from the digital switchover, which has already caused concern for many families in the Paterson electorate who receive poor or no digital television reception.
‘The Rudd Labor Government must ensure the switchover is properly regulated and that every household can access free, clear, uninterrupted digital television,’ said Mr Baldwin.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has listed this scam on its SCAMwatch website and complaints can be made to the Digital Switchover Taskforce on 1800
Media enquiries: Alexandra Wilson – 0401 070 317
