POLICE have issued a warning over fake designer goods being sold online.

Anti-fraud officers have advised shoppers to always be suspicious of designer products being sold at heavily discount prices. In many cases the items received are cheap and inferior imitations.

Shoppers are advised to always shop at well-known high street retailers and to be wary of unknown firms or those based overseas. Paying by cheque or bank transfer should also be avoided – using a credit card or Paypal will offer protection against fraud.

Anyone unsure of whether a website is reputable should search its name online – bad feedback will usually find its way onto the internet quickly.

Spelling mistakes and poor grammar on websites are also often a clue it has been set up by a fraudster.

Anyone concerned they may have been victim of fraud can report it by calling 0300 123 2040 or at www.actionfraud.police.uk/report_fraud.