BUSINESSES are being warned about bogus callers posing as representatives of Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.
The salesperson has been asking firms if they want to advertise in the fire service staff magazine, claiming to be working for the service’s press office.
A fire service spokesman said: "We do not make 'cold calls' of this nature and this person has no connection whatsoever with our organisation.
"Bogus salespeople are taking advantage of people who want to support the service but we do not receive financial benefit from these adverts.”
There have been previous reports of people operating in a similar way in other parts of the country.
A demand for payment often follows, sometimes even if no agreement has been made.
The service urges anyone who receives a call from people claiming to be from the service to make it clear that they do not wish to purchase an advertisement.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here