Tips to avoid online car scams

Tips to avoid online car scams

As Internet car sales increase in popularity, so does fraud. Follow these tips to prevent it from happening to you.

  • If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be cautious of any vehicle priced well below its Kelley Blue Book value.
  • Establish telephone contact with the seller — do not rely on e-mail alone — and determine where the car is located. Ask if you can inspect the car, even if you don't plan to do so. Ask if the title is clear and in their possession.
  • If the seller only accepts payment by money wire transfer, walk away. Legit dealerships don't request them — once you provide the confirmation number, a Western Union or MoneyGram transfer can be picked up anywhere in the world, no matter where you think you're sending it.

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Don't get run over by online car scams

Jacob Johnson, manager of America Auto Sales, says scammers used his dealership’s identity to commit wire fraud and steal from unsuspecting car buyers online.
Photo by Lance Murphey

One of the newest forms of fraud involves scammers who create a website using contact information of a legitimate dealership.

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