PEOPLE are being warned about buying items from the internet after police reported a number of frauds.
Grampian Police have warned the public to be alert to potential online fraudsters when purchasing items from internet auction sites, after police were informed of bogus sellers who place genuine looking adverts on the auction sites.
Items allegedly for sale normally centre around light plant and machinery as well as some vehicles and boats – which are all being sold at attractive prices.
A police spokesman said that the seller will normally approach the buyer outwith the normal auction transaction protocols and encourage them to deal direct.
This is often accompanied by false email documentation and email addresses.
Once the payment has been received, the buyer will often find that the seller can no longer be contacted and promised delivery schedules for items will elapse.
A police spokesman said that buyers have found themselves to be thousands of pounds out of pocket due to this scam.
They are recommending that if any potential buyer has doubts about the validity of an item for sale as well as that of the seller to contact the auction site direct.
Anyone finding themselves falling victim to fraudsters should contact Grampian Police on 0845 600 5 700.