THE increasing problem of online scams and offers that replicate the branding of well known organisations with the intention to defraud people, is being highlighted by the West Devon and Torridge MP after a constituent was cheated out of £3,000.

Geoffrey Cox MP has taken up the case of a constituent, who used the auction website eBay, to purchase a car costing £3,000. The money was taken from the constituent's bank but the product was never received. The online fraudsters had sent him an email, purporting to be from Ebay, asking that the money be paid into a bank account and assuring him his money would be guaranteed in such circumstances.

Mr Cox said: 'What concerned me the most on hearing this story is that thousands of people are using eBay and could be caught out by similar frauds.

'It really is essential that buyers should ensure that they know the terms on which they are handing over money and that they are indeed fully protected.

'I am concerned that no-one seems to have acted on this clear case of fraud. I have raised this matter strongly with Devon and Cornwall Constabulary — to investigate and freeze any bank accounts that such money is being paid into.

' In the meantime, I encourage all residents to be careful when purchasing online, and to be mindful of fake or scam emails proclaiming to be well-known companies.'