THOUSANDS of people have been left out of pocket after two communications companies charged customers for services they did not receive, a council has said.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead (RBWM) trading standards team is investigating Indian based telecommunications firms, Guaranteed Telecom Ltd and Met Technologies Ltd after nearly 13,000 UK residents were let down.

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Residents in Ascot and surrounding areas filed 300 complaints about paying monthly direct debits for unknown services.

Customers alleged following an initial cold-call in relation to selling a call blocking service, a direct debit was set up but the two companies never provided the service.

Authorities are taking action against the India-based firms as they told residents they could block cold callers for them.

Greg Nelson, trading standards and licensing manager at RBWM, said: "Ensuring that both our residents and other UK consumers are protected from activities like this is one of our top priorities.

“The shocking targeting of some of our most vulnerable residents was of grave concern to us during this complex investigation and we are extremely pleased that we have been able to secure refunds for those affected by these activities.”

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During the investigation, trading standards spoke to more than 150 residents, all of whom are over the age of 65.

Allegations have also been made against Kunal Gupta companies after their landlines were transferred over without thier consent or knowledge, or that they were mis-led about the price.

According to trading standards, taking over a landline without getting the line owner's permission is known as 'slamming'.

Telecoms regulator OFCOM is also taking action against Mr Gupta's two companies.

Cllr David Cannon, lead member for public protection and parking, said: “I am very pleased that our trading standards team have been able to protect both our residents and those from further afield from this trader.

"I hope that consumers near and wide will find their top tips to prevent falling victim to these scams helpful.”