Don’t give out your personal details in an email – and be aware of links in emails which might be fraudulent.

Fraudulent emails and calls from Figaro Trader

Figaro Trader will never ask you for personal information such as sign in details or credit card numbers in an email.

Scammers have been known to email sellers with a ‘duplicate advert’ of their car, before providing a link to what looks like Figaro Trader’s sign in page. Once the seller has provided their details, the scammer uses those details to change the description and contact details.

Other scams include:

• Calls from scammers requesting credit card details for refunds
• Fake lotteries which claim to be conducted in association with Figaro Trader
  
• Emails detailing offers for Figaro Trader customers, with a full refund if your car is not sold within three weeks

Only sign in to your account via this Figaro Trader Website, not from links in emails. If you’re already signed in and are asked to sign in again after clicking on a link from an email, think twice. If in doubt, type www.figarotrader.co.uk into your web browser and sign in the usual way.

Text message premium rate scam
Sellers have received text messages from scammers posing as potential buyers. The ‘buyer’ expresses interest in the vehicle but makes an excuse as to why they cannot telephone the seller, before asking the seller to call them on a premium rate phone number.

Premium rate numbers typically begin with the digits ‘090’ or ‘091’ followed by a further 8 digits. The cost of calls varies but can cost several pounds per minute, with calls from mobiles costing more. Most landline numbers in the UK begin with an ‘01’ or ‘02’ while all UK mobile phone numbers currently begin with ‘077’ ‘078’ or ‘079.’

What to do?
PhonepayPlus regulates the content and promotion of premium rate services in the UK. It investigates complaints and has the power to fine companies.

If you receive a text message asking you to phone a premium rate number, contact the free PhonepayPlus helpline on 0800 500 212. Alternatively, you can make a complaint to PhoneplayPlus or check a premium rate number.