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Dear resident,
Local teams are aware of an increasing number of scams targeting high-value vehicles for sale online. These offences typically involve individuals visiting a private seller for a viewing and test drive, either distracting the seller or asking them questions which force them away from the vehicle. Once alone, these individuals tamper with and cause damage to the vehicle, typically by pouring oil or liquid into an engine. Officers are reminding the public to remain vigilant online, and offer the following advice when selling your vehicle privately: • Never leave potential buyers alone with your vehicle – consider organising to have someone with you when a viewing is arranged. • Listen to any advice offered by a company through which you are selling – online platforms occasionally provide information on private buyers which might make you think twice about who you are selling to. • If a potential buyer claims your vehicle is damaged and tries to haggle on the price, do not accept this and notify police. • If you have a Ring doorbell/CCTV system, make sure these are activated and working prior to a viewing. • Ask to see a copy of the potential buyer’s driving licence before they attend the viewing. Borough Commander for Elmbridge, Inspector Lucy Marriott said: “We are seeing an increase in the number of reports concerning vehicle crime, particularly involving the private sale and viewing of high-value cars. “Whilst our enquiries remain ongoing to identify those associated with these reports, we want to remind the public to be mindful as to who they might be selling to and complete all the necessary checks ahead of any vehicle viewings. If you feel you might have been the victim of this scam, or know someone who has, please report it to us as soon as possible.” | ||||
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