West Dunbartonshire Trading Standards are alerting local residents to exercise caution when contacted by third party car sales companies.
Councillor Craig McLaughlin, spokesperson for the Corporate Services department, said “Several local consumers, after advertising their used vehicles for sale in various publications including online, have alerted us to companies calling them out of the blue offering to sell their vehicle for an up front fee usually between £50 and £99. They often promise to have buyers lined up for these vehicles, however in most cases the sales never take place and the consumer is left out of pocket”
Annemarie Wilson, Authorised Officer from Trading Standards said “It is important that those currently advertising their vehicle for sale are aware of this scam and are not tempted by the promise of a ‘quick sale’ for an up front fee even if this sale is supposedly ‘guaranteed’. These third parties often masquerade as reputable companies to tempt people to part with their money and then hide behind restrictive terms and conditions which make it difficult to obtain a refund if your vehicle is not sold”
If you want more advice or have some information please contact West Dunbartonshire Council’s consumer advice partner Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.
