Greg's Corner

Scammers Hide Tracking Device in Car Purchase

By Greg Collier

In an era where online marketplaces connect buyers and sellers across vast distances, convenience often comes with risk. A recent case in Colorado serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating just how sophisticated online scams can be, and how devastating their consequences.

This unfortunate incident began when a local resident came across an ad for a pickup truck on Facebook Marketplace. The listing was detailed, the price seemed reasonable, and the seller appeared legitimate. Determined to finalize the deal, the buyer even flew to Texas to meet the seller in person. Everything about the transaction seemed above board. The documents matched, VINs checked out, and even the license plates appeared legitimate.

After the truck was driven back to Colorado, the truth began to unravel when the buyer attempted to register the vehicle. A closer inspection by law enforcement revealed a complex web of fraud. The truck’s title had been ‘washed’, meaning it was illegally altered to remove critical information. The license plates were cloned from a legitimate vehicle, and most chillingly, a tracking device was discovered hidden in the vehicle.

This tracking device revealed the scammers’ strategy After selling the stolen truck, they intended to locate it using the tracker and steal it back, leaving the unsuspecting buyer out thousands of dollars and without a vehicle. The truck, as it turned out, had been reported stolen, and its rightful ownership had already transferred to an insurance company.

The scam underscores the increasingly elaborate lengths to which criminals will go to exploit online platforms.

To avoid falling victim to such schemes, it’s crucial to approach online transactions with suspicion. Start by recognizing that deals that seem “too good to be true” often are. A significantly below-market price should be a red flag, especially for high-value items like vehicles.

Whenever possible, avoid cash payments. Instead, use payment methods that provide a layer of protection, such as certified checks or escrow services.

Always insist on meeting in a secure, public place like a police department. Many law enforcement agencies offer their parking lots as safe zones for transactions.

Take steps to independently verify the legitimacy of any vehicle you plan to purchase. Request a detailed vehicle history report and ensure the title matches the VIN on all parts of the car. Utilize certified VIN inspectors to confirm the authenticity of the vehicle’s documentation. And remain wary of sellers who have excuses for missing items, such as spare keys or incomplete paperwork.

Checking for hidden tracking devices in a used car is an essential step to ensure your safety and protect yourself from potential scams. Scammers often place these devices in inconspicuous areas of the vehicle to track its location after the sale. During your inspection, pay close attention to both the exterior and interior of the car. Examine areas such as the wheel wells, undercarriage, bumpers, and any compartments that might conceal a device. Inside the vehicle, inspect beneath seats, behind panels, and within storage areas for anything that looks unusual or out of place.

To enhance your search, consider using a GPS scanner or a bug detector. These tools can detect signals emitted by tracking devices, providing an extra layer of assurance. It’s also wise to carefully review the vehicle’s wiring and electrical components, as some devices may be connected to the car’s battery or fuse box to maintain power.

If you’re uncertain about conducting a thorough inspection yourself, seeking help from a professional is a prudent choice. Mechanics or automotive security specialists are well-equipped to check for hidden devices and can give you confidence in your purchase. Taking these precautions not only protects your investment but also ensures your personal safety and peace of mind when buying a used vehicle.