Motorists have warned fraudsters are using social media platforms to “advertise vehicles at bargain prices.” These fake sellers then “pressure motorists” to send deposit money before buying a car.
They have urged drivers to always try and view the car at the owner’s property before handing over any money.
Sellers may try and ask a driver to meet at a mutually convenient location but Confused urges drivers to avoid that.
When viewing the car, motorists should take a record of the address.
This is in case something goes wrong and drivers will need to take legal action.
They warn there are only three legal checks private sellers must pass before they can accept money for their vehicle.
Firstly, the seller must have the legal right to sell the car.
The vehicle should match the description given by the seller.
The AA said the car must also be in a roadworthy condition at the time of sale.
Drivers are warned an MOT certificate from a test taken several months ago is no automatic guarantee the car is still roadworthy today.