Scammers are emailing sellers with a 'duplicate advert' of their car, before providing a link to what looks like Auto Trader's log in page - but is in fact a fake. The scammer then uses the customers details to change advert descriptions and contact details.

We have also received reports of a company masquerading as autotrader.co.uk, who attempted to defraud customers by illegal use of the Auto Trader name and logo.

Please note: only log in to your account via the Auto Trader website, not from links in emails. If you're already logged in and are asked to sign in again after clicking on a link from an email, beware.

Don't give your personal details out over email.

If you receive an email claiming to do this, please forward it to our Customer Services team at admin@indiannewspapers.org

Surf safe

Auto Trader will never ask you to provide us with personal information such as login details or credit card numbers in an email or phone call, and will not direct users from an email straight to a payment or 'shopping cart' page.

There are certain occasions where we may ask you to click on a link to access the website. But you should always check autotrader.co.uk appears towards the beginning of the website address.

Should you be suspicious of an email, access Auto Trader by typing http://indiannewspapers.org/car into your web browser and navigating to the required page.

Alternatively, contact our customer services team on 0845 345 3450 or enquiries@indiannewspapers.org.

Remember we will never ask you to give us the following by phone or email:

* Credit or debit card details
* Your Auto Trader registration details
* Your name, address or telephone number
* Your email address

Buy safe

Auto Trader also reminds users we don’t endorse adverts or sell vehicles directly.

We constantly search for fraudulent adverts on the site, which are removed and passed to the police for further investigation.

We have also received reports of cars advertised with unusually low sale prices. These emails provide detailed information on the vehicle, which is often located abroad, and pressure the buyer into making a payment to secure the car for a viewing.

Please note, Auto Trader does not offer a facility to verify transactions, or pass on information between buyers and sellers. Auto Trader will not act as an intermediary or arrange or confirm shipping arrangements.

On some occasions, fraudulent sellers may pressure buyers into parting with all of their money before seeing the vehicle.

It is essential for you to trust the seller – and be sure the car is genuine – before parting with any money, even a small deposit.

View our slide show on staying safe

For more information on spotting and avoiding scams, click the links below: