Internet users are being warned to be aware of anything that looks too good to be true.
The warning comes from Cambridgeshire County Council after it was revealed that in 2013 online and auction scams were the most commonly reported fraud, costing UK consumers £63.3million.
Acting head of supporting businesses and communities, Aileen Andrews, said: “Scams come in a variety of ways. National statistics show that the main channel used is web/email – 30 per cent. Internet shoppers can get lured into buying non-existent cars, mobile phones, pets or anything else you can buy online.”
The council is focusing on online and email crimes as a part of their supporting businesses and communities service.
“Scammers use a range of tricks including bogus websites, spoofed payment services and a nasty new variation called ‘second chance offers’ tempting losing bidders with bogus opportunities,” said Ms Andrews.
It advised that if anyone is worried about something they have seen online to call the Citizen Advice Bureau on 03454 04 05 06.
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