UFU warns farmers after rise in rogue traders and scammers across Northern Ireland

Farmers and rural businesses across Northern Ireland are being urged to be on high alert following an increase in reports of rogue traders and scammers, with some victims said to have lost thousands of pounds.

The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has issued the warning amid concerns that those responsible are arriving uninvited at farms and presenting themselves in a professional and apparently legitimate manner.

Farmers are being advised not to hand over money or make decisions under pressure, and to report suspicious activity to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) by calling 101.

‘Be extremely wary of cold callers’

UFU deputy president Glenn Cuddy described the reported increase as “extremely concerning” and warned that it can be difficult to immediately recognise those involved as rogue traders.

“We are aware of an extremely concerning increase in reports of rogue traders and scammers targeting farms and rural businesses. These individuals often arrive uninvited and appear professional and legitimate, making it difficult to identify their malicious intentions.

“The message is simple: be extremely wary of cold callers. If someone arrives at your farm offering services that you have not requested, do not engage with them. Instead, take the time to verify who they are, what company they represent and whether they can provide genuine references and credentials. More importantly, do not allow yourself to be pressured into making a decision or handing over money.”

The warning is particularly relevant for people living and working in isolated rural areas, where unexpected callers may have fewer neighbours or other witnesses nearby.

Farmers urged to report suspicious activity

The UFU is urging people to report every suspicious incident to police, even where they are unsure whether an offence has actually taken place.

The organisation said early reports can help officers build intelligence, identify patterns of activity and potentially prevent other farms or rural businesses from being targeted.

“Reporting is key. Even if no offence has been committed, information about suspicious activity can help police identify patterns and disrupt those responsible,” Mr Cuddy continued.

He also encouraged farmers and rural residents to alert neighbours when suspicious callers or activity are spotted.

“Look out for your neighbours too. Living in rural areas as farmers do, we are more isolated making us particularly vulnerable to rogue traders and scammers. If you experience any suspicious activity, let others living nearby know.

“It’s in your best interest to report anything that doesn’t sit right with you to the PSNI, no matter how big or small it may seem. What may appear insignificant could provide valuable information that helps prevent someone else from becoming a victim.”

PSNI action planned amid increase

According to the UFU, the PSNI has assured the organisation that it has resources available to deal with the scale of the reported threat and is planning action days in response to the increase.

The UFU said it will continue to work closely with police on the issue.

Anyone who believes they have been targeted by rogue traders or scammers, or who witnesses suspicious activity, is encouraged to contact the PSNI without delay by calling 101.

For farming families and rural businesses, the advice is straightforward: treat unexpected offers with caution, verify who callers are before agreeing to anything, resist pressure to pay or make an immediate decision, tell neighbours about suspicious activity and ensure concerns are reported to police.