Buying a car privately or online can be one of the largest single purchases many people make outside of property — and fraudsters know it. Fake listings, cloned vehicles, and sellers who disappear after a deposit is paid are all common patterns in the UK used car market.
A seller who is "working abroad" and cannot meet, asking for the full payment or a large deposit to be sent before you can view or collect the vehicle.
"Cloned" vehicles — a stolen car given the identity (number plate and documents) of a legitimate vehicle of the same make and model, sold to an unsuspecting buyer.
Listings priced well below market value to attract quick interest, with the seller creating urgency to discourage proper checks.
Always view and test-drive the vehicle in person before paying anything.
Check the registration number against the free gov.uk vehicle information service to confirm basic details match.
Never pay via bank transfer to an account that doesn't match the seller's name, or via untraceable methods.
If you've been scammed, report it to your bank and to Report Fraud at reportfraud.police.uk. If you suspect you've bought a cloned or stolen vehicle, contact the police immediately.
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If buying from a dealer, check their company status on the official UK register before paying anything.
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