It’s always an exciting time buying a new car. However worryingly, fraudsters are coming up with more ways to target innocent buyers through internet scams. Find out from our experts the most common internet car scams:
The Ghost Car
Ghost cars are vehicles that were at some point genuinely advertised for sale. The fraudulent seller waits until the car has moved on then (using the same photos), advertises the vehicle. The price will be significantly less than the market price, making it more attractive.
The Long Distance Car
You’ve been searching for your dream car for months and low and behold you finally find it. The only thing is, the car is in Scotland and you’re in London. However, as the seller is so ‘helpful’, they have agreed to ship the car down so you can have a test drive for a few days and in return you leave a deposit. With this scam, you leave your deposit, but never receive news of the car being shipped across.
The ‘Only-Available-by-Email’-Car
If you find yourself only talking to a seller via email beware! You should always be able to phone a seller and visit them at the vehicles’ registered address. If a seller has a little amount of contact this could be a scam. An honest seller will want you to come and visit the car and would be easy to reach ie: phone, text, email. If something doesn’t feel right, walk away.
The Cash Only Car
“I need a quick sale because I’m emigrating”, if a seller is insisting on a ‘cash only’ payment think twice. With the advances in technology, mobile and online banking are easier than ever before and the money can be transferred almost immediately. Don’t except any ‘cash only’ excuses. Fraudsters use this scam as it can’t be traced back. It is common for a seller to also use a fake mobile number and email address. Always pay with card, you need traceability and a receipt.
If you feel uneasy when visiting a car give us a call, we can help you leave an uncomfortable situation and / or carry out an HPI Check. If you would like anymore advice visit us at www.hpicheck.com or tweet us @HPICheck.
Happy driving,
Priya