Motorists who use and purchase vans, could risk having their vehicle's identity, 'cloned', according to recent reports.

Research from HPI; a vehicle information service, found that the Ford Transit van, is the second most cloned van in the UK. The Mercedes C class, Audi A4 and the BMW 3 series, were among those that were also most frequently cloned.

The process of cloning involves, taking the number plate and identification number details and swapping them with those of another van, which is the same make, colour and model.

Motorists and van insurance customers, who purchase second hand van, have been advised to be aware this form of fraudulent and illegal activity. Though the van may be a good purchase, being a cloned vehicle could affect the legality of the vehicle and the insurance policy.

Nick Lindsay, director of HPI, said: "Our top ten suggests that it is not just prestige cars, but vans that are today's work horses which offer criminals the greatest rewards."