IF you’re looking for a new car leasing deal, watch out for a spate of bogus deals appearing on social media.

The warning comes from the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) which has been made aware of a spate of fraudulent activity.

The scammers are using social media advertising, including Instagram, to lure in customers with advertising headlines targeting those with poor credit ratings. The scammers claim to be members of the BVRLA.

The BVRLA says that you should think twice before responding to any adverts that promote vehicle leasing deals that require ‘No credit checks’, promote ‘No deposit’ and ask people to ‘Direct Message’ via text to get the deal.

BVRLA Chief Executive, Gerry Keaney said:

“These criminals are purposely targeting the vulnerable, scamming money from people who can least afford to lose it. It’s deplorable. Their adverts can appear very convincing with some even posing as BVRLA members and citing membership numbers of legitimate members.

“We want to get the message out there that all legitimate leasing brokers adhere to Financial Conduct Authority rules and will carry out credit and affordability checks. Those who don’t, will not be legitimate traders and could be out to scam you.”

Customers who want to check whether a leasing broker is a genuine BVRLA member can contact the BVRLA directly – alternatively you can use an approved leasing broker from the Leasing Broker Federation on our own Car and Leasing Directory.

Only genuine leasing brokers belong to the BVRLA and Leasing Broker Federation.

If you come across this scam, report it to Action Fraud quoting the reference: NRC 1808 0249 5417