Trading standards alert over e-mail con

Denbighshire’s Trading Standards are urging consumers to be on their guard against e-mails received in response to small ads placed when selling motorbikes.

The warning follows a case where a local resident was contacted by e-mail asking for the "best price" for the motorbike for sale and that it was being bought for a present.

The sender appears to offer an amount over the asking price and then requests personal details and asks for funds by transfer.

It is likely that although the addresses and contact details appear legitimate the user is not always based in the UK and can be untraceable.

Ian Millington, of Denbighshire Trading Standards, said: “Although this is the first complaint we have had it seems this type of scam has been around for some time.

“We advise that you should never give personal information or banking details to anyone you don't know.

“If you receive an unexpected call or e-mail, always be cautious and never make an advance payment by any method unless you have taken steps to make sure the person is genuine and the payment is necessary.

"Any offer that seems too good to be true often is. Consumers should steer clear of these scams and should not respond to any spam e-mails as they can find themselves bombarded with other spam mail.

“If you suspect something, report it to the authorities via Action Fraud or Citizens Advice consumer service."

If you have received any such calls then report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or report it on-line at www.actionfraud.org.uk.

For free, confidential and impartial advice on consumer issues visit www.adviceguide.org.uk or call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 08454 04 05 06.