How Do Used Car Scams Work

Here’s how the scam works: Criminals post ads on online auction and sales websites, like eBay Motors, for inexpensive used cars (that they don’t really own). They offer to chat online, share photos, and answer questions. They may even tell you the sale will go through a well-known retailer’s buyer protection program.

How do you know if someone is scamming you for a car?

• Offers to buy sight-unseen. A buyer offering to buy your car without looking at it first should be considered a warning sign. …
• Paying with checks or money orders. …
• Overpayment. …
• Payment plans. …
• Escrow services. …
• Asking for personal information.

What is the safest way to accept payment for a car?

Cash is still the safest and most preferable form of payment when selling a car, especially at a reasonable amount. Remember to check for authenticity and do count out the money in the presence of the car buyer. If the conditions allow, let the buyer pay you at your bank.