IF you buy something out of the back of a van then be prepared to be ripped off.

That’s the stark warning from West Yorkshire Trading Standards after con artists in West Yorkshire have started selling electronic equipment at motorway service stations and retail parks.

Typically, the seller will offer what appears to be a bargain – possibly a new TV at a knockdown price – showing the victim a new modern TV as a prop.

But after the victim has parted with their cash the conman will place it in their car boot and only later realise it’s not the same TV – usually one that’s far cheaper.

Graham Hebblethwaite, chief officer of West Yorkshire Trading Standards said: “This is not a new scam and has been around for years.

“The trader relies on consumers being unwary and over hasty.

“In the current economic climate many consumers are increasingly looking for a bargain and this scam will result in consumers suffering financial loss”.