New Security AnnouncementThursday 28 May 2020 Coronavirus Scams

As well as the disruption caused by the Coronavirus crisis, criminals are exploiting the situation, using Covid-19 as an excuse to take payment for vehicles without a viewing in person first. Please also beware of emails, text messages, phone calls, adverts and social media posts offering services to provide facemasks, hand sanitiser, diagnosis services, vaccines and bogus charities. Do not be tempted into ordering Coronavirus products from, or send money to, unknown or untrusted sources. Check official sites for advice, including, Action Fraud.

Staying safe on Auto Trader

Buying or selling a car should be a pleasant, hassle-free experience‚ and at Auto Trader we do everything we can to make sure that's the case. Our handy hints and tips will ensure you stay safe online, whether you're buying or selling a car.

Never send money for a vehicle you haven’t seen

See and check the vehicle and documents before handing over any money. The only exception would be if you have arranged home delivery from one of our advertising dealers that offer this service.

Emails and texts from Auto Trader

We will never ask you to login to your Auto Trader account via email or SMS. Only enter your login details when you see a padlock and Auto Trader Ltd in the address bar before the website address.

Paying for your vehicle

If you’re paying a deposit or paying upfront for click and collect/home delivery, consider using a credit card as this offers additional protection.

Spotted an issue

Seen something we should know about? Use the link or number below to contact us

Email us 0330 303 9001

Advice

Tips on buying a used car safely

Watch our short film to see Auto Trader's Editor-in-chief Jon Quirk guide you through three top tips that will help ensure that you stay safe when you're buying a used car. You can also access a handy checklist here

Advice

Tips on selling a used car safely

Watch our short film to see Auto Trader's Editor-in-chief Jon Quirk guide you through three top tips that will help ensure that you stay safe when you're selling a used car. You can also access a handy checklist here

Advice

What’s a Category C or Category D car?

Just because a car has been 'written off', it doesn't necessarily mean you should reject buying it

Advice

How to spot and avoid clocked, stolen or unsafe cars

Buying a used car should be an exciting experience. To make sure it is, follow our tips below to avoid buying a car that has a hidden past, turns out be stolen or is illegal

Advice

Top tips to stay safe online

Buying a vehicle can be a safe and straightforward process, as long as you take these few simple steps to protect yourself

Advice

How to spot and avoid potential scams

Cybercrime is becoming part and parcel of everyday life, so here we explain the possible problems you may face and how you can protect yourself from the fraudsters

Advice

How to ensure your payment is made safely

No matter whether you're buying or selling, a smooth payment is the best way to end a successful transaction. Here, we explain how to take the risk out of making or receiving a payment using the main options that are available. Whichever method you choose, though, never send money for a vehicle you haven't seen.

Advice

Why you should know who your buyer is

If you're contacted by a company promising to buy your car or claiming to have buyers ready and waiting, beware. These are usually scams, and some even use the Auto Trader name to appear legitimate

Other places to go for advice

VSTAG

helping to protect buyers and sellers from vehicle-related fraud.

Get Safe Online

offers help and advice to avoid scams and stay safe on the internet.

Citizens Advice

can provide advice on your consumer rights.

Action Fraud

is the UK's national online crime reporting centre.

DVLA

maintains registers of drivers and vehicles.

GOV.UK

has official advice about MOT and emissions tests, insurance and more.

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