Consumers are being urged to say no when approached by illegal sellers of electronic equipment that are currently operating from a white van travelling around Perth suburbs.

Three recent reports have been received by Consumer Protection from consumers who have been approached in public places such as service stations and shopping centres in East Victoria Park, Kewdale and near Roleystone. One consumer paid $900 for two speakers which the salesmen said were worth $7,000.

The two salesmen, with foreign accents and driving a white Toyota HiAce van, tell consumers that the electronic equipment is no longer required by a client and they can’t take it back to the warehouse.

Acting Commissioner for Consumer Protection David Hillyard said these dodgy and transient illegal traders appear from time to time and he advises consumers to stay well clear of them.

“They normally use high pressure sales techniques to sell cheap and inferior quality electronics at inflated prices, but give the impression to consumers they approach at service stations and car parks that they are getting a bargain,” Mr Hillyard said.

“These salespeople often make misleading claims about the value and quality of the goods being sold and instil a sense of urgency, saying that the prices are reduced as they have to sell the stock quickly for a range of reasons. The goods sometimes have counterfeit branding and may even be stolen.

“These ‘back of van salespeople’ are breaking door to door trading laws which allow consumers a ten-day cooling off period for any unsolicited sales.

“It’s difficult to track down the traders if there is a problem with the product and consumers may not be able to get a repair, refund or replacement that they are entitled to.

“Our strong advice is for consumers to resist uninvited approaches from salespeople wanting to make a quick cash sale on items that are probably not worth the money they are asking for them.”

Consumers approached by these salespeople are urged to contact Consumer Protection immediately on 1300 304 054 to report their location and licence plate number.

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Media Contact: Alan Hynd, (08) 6552 9248 / 0429 078 791 / alan.hynd@dmirs.wa.gov.au