Custom House man hit by �2,900 web scam

A 33-year-old man from Custom House was conned out of �2,900 on a web auction site.

The victim was interested in buying a quad bike advertised on the site, so he contacted the seller and made an offer. The seller accepted and gave instructions on how he would like to be paid.

On February 21, the buyer transferred the money as requested by the seller, but did not get the bike or his money back as he could not make any further contact with the seller whose auction page was no longer online.

Crime prevention officer Pc Andy Whitfield said: “If you are interested in purchasing anything off an auction site, it is always good practice if purchasing a vehicle, to ask for proof of ownership.

“Never use money transfer and be aware of the safest ways of using bank transfers. “Remember. Do not let the excitement of buying a vehicle compromise your safety or that of your money.”

* For more information on how to keep safe when purchasing online visit http://www.met.police.uk/fraudalert/buying_selling_vehicles.htm.