North Yorkshire trading standards officers are using computer programmes to step up the fight against rogue traders.

The county has been highlighted as a hotspot for victims of the criminals, due to its remote communities.

Ruth Andrews, head of fraud and financial investigations at North Yorkshire County Council, said monthly intelligence data regarding fraudsters is put into a data base, then plotted on a North Yorkshire map via a mapping system, highlighting clusters of incidents.

She said the fraud office had highlighted the areas of Harrogate, Knaresborough, Scarborough and Richmond as being some of the worst affected areas in North Yorkshire. She said: “Elderly people may not be able to check roof work after it has been completed, or they maybe worried that their families will think they cannot live on their own anymore, and many do not know who to report to.”

She advised residents not to deal with door-to-door traders.

Mrs Andrews said: “If you want work done, we suggest you contact three local traders and compare quotes, also check with friends and family if you are unsure of anything.”

For a list of trusted contractors, visit the Government-accredited website trustmark.org.uk If you feel you have been a victim of fraud, phone Consumer Direct on 0845 040506.