February 19, 2013
Police are reminding people to be vigilant when purchasing vehicles after a number of fraudulent advertisements were spotted in Queensland at the weekend.
Scammers regularly target unwary buyers by advertising a desirable model vehicle at what seems like an impossibly good price.
Potential buyers will make contact with the “seller” and can often be given a story that the vehicle is stored elsewhere or that the seller is working away and that a deposit will be required to secure the deal.
Known as an advanced fee fraud scam, the activity aims to elicit funds from an unsuspecting buyer, as either a deposit or even payment in full for a fraudulently advertised vehicle.
Senior Constable Russ Parker said buyers really need to do their homework.
“The message is clear – never pay money to someone you can’t speak with face-to-face, for a car or motorcycle that you can’t physically see and touch,” he said.
“By doing your model research and having a good idea of typical market values prior to going shopping you are better placed to spot a dodgy deal.
“These scammers can be very convincing so you need to be on the ball.”
For up-to-date information relating to scams, go to www.scamwatch.gov.au
