The Better Business Bureau in Nebraska says used cars are in high demand and scammers know it. Con artists are taking advantage of shoppers who turn to online platforms in search of a reasonably priced used vehicle. The Better Business Bureau says be wary of this latest twist and too-good-to-be-true prices.
Spokesman Josh Planos says the way the scam works is consumers shop for a used vehicle on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or another online platform. “You find the make and model you want at an excellent price. However, when you contact the seller, you find out that the vehicle is in another city.”
Planos says the seller knows a transport company that can deliver the vehicle to you. “All you need to do is pay the transport company, which will hold the funds in escrow until the vehicle is delivered. Many scammers will add a sad story meant to tug on your heartstrings. For example, they may claim the car belonged to a relative who has passed away.”
Planos says once you’ve paid the third-party company, usually by a wire transfer or prepaid debit card, your vehicle won’t be delivered. “The sale was a scam, and the con artist was in cahoots with the third-party transport company. Unfortunately, your money is gone for good.”
Click here for tips on avoiding car sales scams.
(Photo: Better Business Bureau )