Vintage Deception: Unveiling Advanced Scams in Classic Car Sales

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Scam Overview:
  • Fraudsters create fake websites mimicking real used car dealerships, often specializing in classic cars.
  • They use a similar name, logo, and photos scraped from the internet, creating a convincing front.
  • They target buyers who are looking to purchase rare vehicles remotely, as these cars aren't often available locally.
Scam Tactics:
  • Scammers create a fake website with a similar name to a legitimate dealership (e.g., "Joe's Cars" vs. "Joe's Used Cars Inc.").
  • They use Google Earth images of real dealership locations and photos of classic cars found online.
  • They may modify images with the fake dealership's logo on license plates or signs.
  • The website often features slick photos and videos to appear legitimate.
  • Scammers use a phone number that rings directly to them, pretending to be the dealership.
Signs of the Scam:
  • New Website: The fake site is often recently created. Check the domain's creation date using a WHOIS lookup.
  • Fake Phone Number: Verify the phone number through Google Maps; call the real number listed there.
  • Request for Deposit: Scammers may request a deposit to "hold" the vehicle, knowing buyers may not be local.
  • Fake Vehicle Title: They may send a photoshopped title or one with the dealership's name incorrectly listed as the owner.
Prevention Tips:
  • Verify the Business: Confirm the identity of the business before sending money. Look up the business on Google Maps and call the listed number.
  • Request a Video Walkthrough: Ask for a video of the car on the lot, showing the date and location.
  • Check the Vehicle Title: Request a photo of the title and verify its authenticity with the state's Department of Motor Vehicles.
  • Local Inspection: Consider hiring a local inspector to physically verify the car's existence and condition.
Final Advice:
  • Be cautious with remote transactions, especially for rare items like classic cars.
  • If unsure, seek expert advice or hire a professional to verify the transaction.
Additional Resources:
  • Access one-on-one consultations with licensed experts, including private investigators, insurance brokers, real estate title examiners, civil court mediators, and general contractors. Visit actualhuman.com for more information.
Vintage Deception: Unveiling Advanced Scams in Classic Car Sales
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