Watch for fake "cash for clunkers" sites

President Obama signed into law a program that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is calling the Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS). This is a government program that helps you purchase a new, more fuel efficient vehicle when you trade in a less fuel efficient vehicle, also known as a " clunker."

The government is warning consumers to be wary of unofficial "cash for clunkers" Web sites that seek personal information or direct consumers to pre-register for the program.

The NHTSA says dealers and consumers do not need to pre-register for the program that provides $3,500 to $4,500 to people who trade in gas guzzling clunkers for a new vehicle.

The official government site for the CARS program is www.cars.gov.