The Rise of Classic Car Scams in Online Sales
With the rapid increase in classic car values and the prevalence of online sales, scammers are taking advantage of unsuspecting enthusiasts. Here’s how they do it and how you can protect yourself.
Identifying Classic Car Scams
Ill-intentioned individuals are stealing photos from legitimate classified ads to create fake listings for cars they don’t own. YouTuber Pleasant Green recently exposed this scam in a new video.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
When browsing for classic cars online, be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. Scammers often use photoshopped images and fake addresses to lure buyers. Here are some warning signs to look out for:
Price Discrepancies
If a classic car is priced well below market value, it’s likely a scam. Always research the fair market price for the vehicle you’re interested in.
Reverse Image Search
Use reverse image search to check if the photos in the listing are original. If other dealers are using the same images, it’s a red flag.
Verify Addresses
Look up the address provided by the seller and use Google Street View to confirm its legitimacy. Mismatched details or discrepancies indicate a potential scam.
Check VIN Numbers
Verify the VIN number with the state’s motor vehicle enforcement division to ensure it’s legitimate. Fake documents are a common tactic used by scammers.
Protect Yourself from Classic Car Scams
While buying a classic car online can be risky, there are steps you can take to safeguard your purchase. By staying informed and vigilant, you can avoid falling victim to fraudulent sellers.