Drivers are being warned to be on their guard against scammers operating on the M53 .
Offering fake gold in exchange for cash or fuel, the con artists are flagging down Good Samaritans and then exploiting them.
North West Motorway Police said they had received a number of reports of the scam.
The force said the crooks will appear 'distressed' and try to get motorists to stop on the hard shoulder.
Anyone who spots anything suspicious is urged to pass on details, including registration numbers.
Scammers peddling similar sob stories, who were also operating on the M53, M56 and M6, had to be arrested this time last year.
NW Motorway Police tweeted: "We’ve had further reports of jewellery sellers on the M53 last couple of days.
"This is a SCAM where a person offers gold in exchange for money for fuel.
"They are usually on motorway slip roads and can appear quite distressed to get you to stop on the hard shoulder.
"If you see this DO NOT stop, call 999 and pass as much detail as you can. Registration numbers would be great."
NW Motorway Police is a combination Cheshire, Lancashire, Merseyside and Greater Manchester Police forces.
Anyone with information should contact police on 101, details can also be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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