VSTAG launches guide on how to be safe when buying and selling a vehicle

Auto Trader, eBay Motors, Exchange & Mart, the Finance & Leasing Association, Motors.co.uk, and the Met 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.

As part of its aim to protect both buyers and sellers of cars, vans and motorcycles from fraud, VSTAG (pronounced “Vee -Stag”) has today [01.06.2007] published a consumer advice guide.

Whilst the process of buying or selling a vehicle is usually straightforward, both buyers and sellers can leave themselves open to becoming the victim of fraud or other crimes. VSTAG urges consumers to be careful not to let the excitement of buying or selling a vehicle compromise their safety or money.

VSTAG, which is targeting both online and print related fraud, is now sharing information on known and suspected fraudulent adverts as well as developing and exchanging best practice within the industry.

Adrian Black, chair of VSTAG and business development director of motors.co.uk said:
“We are pleased to be working together in partnership to better protect both buyers and sellers of vehicles. We are doing as much as we can to implement the necessary measures to improve security and make the on-line and off-line world a better place for consumers. However we also urge people to exercise caution when engaging in the sale and purchase of vehicles, particularly private sales, and to arm themselves with the information in our guide and as much relevant information as possible available to better protect themselves. Remember if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Nigel Mawer, Met’s Economic and Specialist Crime Command: "This consumer advice could prove invaluable to the public when buying or selling a car. This is not a victimless crime and often the loss to the individual can be great - armed with this advice they can learn how to prevent themselves from becoming the innocent purchaser of a stolen car or the victim of Internet fraud and protect any investment they make. Through this initiative we aim to make the transaction safer. When buying a car, if you have any doubts at all, walk away."

The full guide can be accessed from the Met’s Fraud Alert website. Follow this link: met.police.uk/fraudalert