Digital cowboys on the rampage

With the digital switchover currently taking place around the UK, consumers have to ensure that they are prepared in time for the analogue signal switch off or face losing their television picture.

This has led to rogue digital traders cashing in on the fact that some consumers are worried that they will not be able to receive a TV signal.

In Manchester, trading standards are telling householders to be extra vigilant over “cowboy” aerial fitters who are charging high fees for equipment that the householders do not need.

In this particular area the switchover takes place on the 4th November, when consumers will need to make sure that they have either Freesat, Freeview, Satellite TV such as Sky, or cable TV.

The trading standards called twenty traders and nine said that a specialist aerial would be needed at a cost of between £65 and £100, even though only a small number of homes will need a new aerial to boost reception.