Unique Auto

Terrifying reports are beginning to appear in the press about online car transaction ending in theft of the cash and, sometimes even violence. Used car sellers have advertised to sell their cars online and then been paid with forged cash or bankers drafts, which they have discovered only after parting with the vehicle. Another popular scam is to offer more than the seller has advertised as the price, providing that a large percentage of any extra is forwarded to another person.

Would-be used car buyers, of apparently real bargain cars, have been asked to meet in quiet places and told that the seller will only take cash. Unprepared buyers have arrived at the meeting only to have all of the cash taken by robbers who also drive off with the car.

Online used car buyers and sellers need to take great care to safeguard themselves and their money from this new breed of Internet fraudster and crook.

A good basic trustworthiness checklist would start with:

• Will they give a full name in advance and carry photo ID when you meet?
• Can the address of their premises by checked?
• Can they supply something other than just a mobile phone number?
• Check out their bank details if they will provide?
• If you agree to a bankers draft, as to meet at your bank where you can pay it in?
• Payments in cash should only be in pounds sterling to avoid forgeries that you may not spot.
• Finally, if meeting the buyer or seller half-way, make sure they agree to meet in a safe well lit place where plenty of people are about and take someone with you.
• Deal just too good to turn down? Might be a scam!

There are plenty of reputable online car firms who will sell you a car or buy one from you without risk but you do need to do your homework and check them out first. If they seem reluctant to give you information, particularly about who they are or where they based, then you had better assume the worst.

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