Scammers target online car buyers, warns ACCC

Fraudsters are targeting online car buyers with fake car sale advertisements on online classifieds and auction sites warns SCAMwatch the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) scam alert service.

Once the scammer gets payment - usually via electronic funds transfer an indicator that the funds are going overseas - it is almost certain the purchased vehicle and seller will never actually been seen.

According to SCAMwatch the scammers attach urgency to the advertisements aiming to rush the potential buyer into paying for the vehicle without actually seeing it.

Furthermore, the scams look genuine but usually offer the vehicle at much lower than expected prices generally around $10,000 or less.

Also, the scammer sometimes replicates genuine advertisements and manipulates the price and contact details so even a legal vehicle check may show that the car actually exists.

SCAMwatch advised car buyers to make sure they do their homework and know how to look out for scams.

Further precautions include: “Don't rush into deals that seem too good to be true; Be wary of purchasing a vehicle that you are unable to see; Take time to verify the vehicle’s details and location; Avoid trading with people who want to make a sale outside of the auction process; Avoid dealing with anyone who asks for payment via wire transfer, Never send your personal, credit card or online account details through an email.”