Farm organisations are warning members to "err on the side of caution" amid concerns of a heightened threat of scams and other criminal activity during the Covid-19 pandemic.

It follows reports of suspicious websites being set-up advertising farm vehicles and machinery for sale that, in reality, do not exist.

NFU Cymru is concerned that given the restrictions currently in place in Wales as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, that some farmers may be duped into buying agricultural goods online from sources they would not usually consider.

What precautions should be taken?

The union issued the following advice for farmers to consider before committing to online purchases:

A change in buying habits

NFU Cymru deputy president Aled Jones said: "At a time when some farmers’ buying habits may change to adapt to the current situation, we should all be wary that there are unscrupulous individuals out there who are targeting farmers through criminal and fraudulent activity.

"I’d encourage all farmers to heed the advice being given around online scams and exercise extra caution before committing to online purchases.”