Buyer beware

Buying a car is probably the most expensive commitment you could make second to a house purchase. Added to this it is unlikely that you will have the security of legal advice, solicitors, agents etc. to protect the transaction and moreover, your money. The process of buying or selling a vehicle is usually straightforward but both buyers and sellers can leave themselves open to becoming the victim of fraud or other crimes. Be careful not to let the excitement of buying or selling a vehicle compromise your safety or your money. And remember, if it looks too good to be true, it usually is.

Exchangeandmart.co.uk together with several other well known motoring websites and the Metropolitan Police have joined together in partnership to form the Vehicle Safe Trading Advisory Group (VSTAG), a new industry forum created to combat vehicle related fraud.

For further information visit the VSTAG website: www.vstag.co.uk

Other useful websites

• For advice on criminal cashback and other frauds that may be attempted against vehicle sellers and buyers, and how to report spam emails go to. http://www.met.police.uk/fraudalert
• Office of Fair Trading (OFT): http://www.oft.gov.uk/oft_and_cd
• Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA): http://www.dvla.gov.uk/vehicles.aspx
• Directgov motoring web page: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring
• Directgov 'buyer beware' web page: http://www.direct.gov.uk/buyerbeware
• The basic details of a vehicle can be checked on the web site: http://www.vehiclelicence.gov.uk
• MOT test certificates can be checked at: http://www.motinfo.gov.uk or by phoning 0870 330 044
• Bank payments advice. (CHAPS): http://www.apacs.org.uk/payment_options
• Financial Services Authority: http://www.fsa.gov.uk
• Escrow information: http://www.escrow-fraud.com
• Get Safe On Line: http://www.getsafeonline.org Search for Escrow or click here
• Trading Standards: http://www.tradingstandards.gov.uk Consumer Direct: 08454 040506