As the Digital Switchover moves ever closer, unscrupulous chancers are attempting toexploit the confusion over dates by encouraging home-owners to get aerial upgrades they don't need.

The Argus reports that residents in East Sussex have been told they should get a better aerial - even though the region won't switch to digital until 2012.

Many coastal homes in the area can't even get Freeview yet because the signal is kept at low power to prevent interference with French TV channels.Local councillor Bob Tidy said: "It's predictable that rip-off merchants will try to cash in on any confusion over the digital switchover.

"In many cases you may simply need to purchase a Freeview box for your television as your aerial may already be compatible.

"Do not agree to have a new aerial fitted or any other digital service provided until you understand all the options."