Residents in Shepton Mallet are being urged to remain vigilant after reports of a scam targeting individuals selling their vehicles privately.

The scam, commonly known as the 'dirty oil' trick, has been flagged by local authorities following a number of recent incidents.

The scam works as follows: two fraudsters arrive to view a vehicle. While one distracts the seller, the other pours oil into the coolant reservoir, causing smoke to pour from the engine during a test drive. The fraudsters then pressure the seller to lower the price, claiming the car has a serious fault.

Authorities are advising Shepton Mallet residents to take the following precautions:

• Document everything by taking pictures and videos of your vehicle before any viewings.
• Research potential buyers on selling platforms before meeting.
• Always have someone with you when showing your car.
• Do not allow potential buyers access to key areas of the vehicle without supervision.
• Be cautious of distraction techniques and ensure that test drives are conducted carefully.
• Don't be rushed into making a sale. Take your time and consult others for advice if you feel unsure.

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."

Local authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activity. Protecting yourself from fraudsters is key to ensuring a safe sale.