Authorities in Wells are urging residents to be cautious after a rise in reports of a scam known as the 'dirty oil' trick, which has been targeting private vehicle sellers in the area.

The scam involves two individuals visiting the seller. One distracts the seller while the other secretly pours oil into the coolant reservoir, leading to smoke pouring from the engine during a test drive. The fraudsters then claim the car has a serious issue and pressure the seller into lowering the price.

A police spokesperson said: ""We want to remind the community to remain cautious when selling vehicles privately. This scam preys on trust, and we encourage all sellers to take simple but effective steps to protect themselves. If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and don't proceed with the sale."

To avoid falling victim to this scam, Wells residents are advised to:

• Take photos and videos of your vehicle before any potential buyer arrives.
• Research buyers thoroughly on selling platforms.
• Never show your car alone – always have someone with you.
• Don't allow unsupervised access to the vehicle, especially critical areas like the coolant reservoir.
• Be wary of distractions that may be attempts to tamper with your vehicle.
• Don't feel pressured into rushing a sale. Take your time and seek advice if needed.

Residents are encouraged to stay alert and report any suspicious behaviour to local authorities. Staying informed and cautious is key to preventing fraud.