Consumers have been given some tips on how to protect themselves when purchasing big-ticket items such as vehicles online.

According to AutoTrader.com, there are a number of steps people can take to safeguard their personal details.

Carrying out research is essential and buyers should be suspicious if something is priced much lower than other vehicles of the same specification, the website notes.

Consumers are advised to avoid sellers who are not willing to make phone contact with them.

Keely Funkhouser, Director of Fraud Prevention Strategies at AutoTrader.com, said it can be easy to fall into traps when buying expensive items online.

"But by following just a few simple tips, consumers can be more confident and careful when using the web to make any online purchases," she added.

In related news, a recent study published in the UK by Cifas revealed that the economic downturn has led to an increase in fraud cases.