From BBC news



Digital TV 'rogue trader' warning



A consumer group has said the switch to digital television could leave
some people vulnerable to "rogue traders".

Members of the Scottish Parliament's local government and communities
committee are discussing the change.

A submission from the Scottish Consumer Council has warned of the
potential for traders trying to sell people a new aerial they do not
need.

The Selkirk transmitter, covering much of the Borders, is due to cease
analogue transmission in November.

A group of 70 people in the region - most of whom are aged over 55 -
have been keeping special diaries recording their concerns and
experiences.

Vulnerable consumers

It is their experience which has prompted the SCC submission.

"Most aerials will be adequate for the new signal but there is still a
perception among many of our diarists that they will have to purchase
and install a new aerial, which could make them susceptible to rogue
traders," it said.

The SCC also said that vulnerable consumers needed to feel better
informed and prepared for the switch.

It concluded that retailers were not sufficiently ready, stating that
some volunteers who visited stores as part of a "mystery shopper"
exercise had been wrongly advised that they would need a new television.

Page last updated at 10:39 GMT, Wednesday, 4 June 2008 11:39 UK

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/south_of_scotland/7435127.stm