A new scam is targeting people that are selling their cars. With many people using online marketplaces to sell their vehicles these days, a warning is being issued to those who have people coming to test drive the motor they're selling.
It centres around a would-be buyer coming to see the car for sale and test driving it. After they've arrived, the scammer will find a way to distract the seller and while this is happening, your genuine car key is swapped for a fake one that the criminal has brought with them, reports the Sun.
The seller and prospective buyer then go their separate ways. The thief later returns to the vehicle when the coast is clear and, using the stolen key, hops in front and drives off, reports BirminghamLive.
The warning from experts at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts will spark concern amongst those who wish to sell their cars online. But there are things you can do to protect yourself - and potentially save thousands.
David Johnson, automotive specialist and Director of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, suggested never handing your keys over during the viewing. He added the prospect buyer should also never be left unattended in the vehicle whilst it’s running - as this provides ample opportunity for a theft to take place.
Vehicle owners should also be sceptical about buyers plugging in diagnostic equipment into the car - these are machines which find potential problems in your motor. And once the viewing is over the vehicle owner should check both keys look and act as normal.
