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Warning for online sellers after man bashed, car stolen in brutal attack

An Adelaide man selling his car on Gumtree has been lured into a trap, bashed and robbed by a group of thugs after agreeing to take the car for a test drive.

The owner of the 2007 green Holden Commodore advertised his car on Gumtree, encouraging potential buyers to get in contact.

An interested buyer contacted the man and arranged a test drive with the car's owner at 7.30pm on Thursday from the car owner's Glenside home.

The man had his green Holden Commodore stolen from him during what he thought was a genuine test drive. Source: 7News
The man had his green Holden Commodore stolen from him during what he thought was a genuine test drive. Source: 7News

But not long into the test drive, the man pulled over and two other men approached the car.

Police say the trio assaulted the owner with a mallet, then sped off in his vehicle.

Detectives have since been looking for clues in the area, doorknocking along Sydney Street and Windsor Avenue searching for witnesses.

The attacker arrived at his Glenside home to take the car for a test drive. Source: 7News
The attacker arrived at his Glenside home to take the car for a test drive. Source: 7News

Neighbours have revealed their shock at the incident.

"It is scary that people help themselves to other people's property," one local told 7News.

"I think that there's something wrong in the streets of Adelaide if people are having that happen to them," another said.

Experts have advised how to stay safe online. Source: 7News
Experts have advised how to stay safe online. Source: 7News

Security experts say there are simple ways those who sell online can protect themselves.

"You don't have to go on test drive yourself," security expert Doug Nicholson said.

"Take a photo of person's ID, then text it to friend or family so it exists somewhere else other than your own phone."

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Police have described one of the wanted men as a Pacific Islander in his late 30s with a stocky build, short, dark hair and a round face.

Anyone with any information is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page.