What began as a hopeful transaction quickly unraveled into a devastating ordeal for a northern Wisconsin family who unknowingly purchased a stolen vehicle in what authorities describe as a sophisticated online scam.
The couple from Prentice had found a 2024 Toyota Camry listed for sale on Facebook Marketplace. The seller, claiming a backstory involving family changes and an unused vehicle, seemed trustworthy. After exchanging messages and agreeing on a price, the family drove more than 11 hours round-trip to Calumet, Illinois, to meet him in person. The deal closed with a $14,000 cash payment.
The excitement surrounding the new purchase was short-lived. When the family attempted to register the car in Wisconsin, they were informed by law enforcement that the vehicle had been reported stolen. The title, which appeared legitimate, was later revealed to be a high-quality fake. State officials determined the forgery only after discovering a single incorrect digit in the vehicle identification documentation. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation and the Secretary of State’s office in Illinois were both involved in the verification process.
The fallout was immediate and financially devastating. The Price County Sheriff’s Office impounded the Camry, leaving the family without transportation and without recourse to recover the money they had paid. Efforts to locate the seller, who identified himself only by a first name, have been unsuccessful.
Consumer protection advocates say this type of fraud is becoming more common, particularly with the rise of online marketplaces, where identity verification and buyer protections are limited. Transactions involving unusually low prices should raise immediate concerns. In this case, the vehicle had been listed well below its market value, which ranges between $25,000 and $27,000, according to current Kelley Blue Book estimates.
Experts also warn against using cash for major purchases involving private parties online. The lack of paper trail makes recovery nearly impossible once a scam has been completed.
The excitement of finally finding a dream car can quickly turn into heartbreak when scammers are involved. A man from Virginia learned this lesson the hard way after losing thousands of dollars in what he believed was a legitimate online purchase from a Cleveland, Ohio, area car dealer.
For years, he had saved up for a classic car, a lifelong goal inspired by his father’s passion for collecting them. When he found a listing for the perfect vehicle, one that even matched the model of his father’s first car, he thought fate had finally brought him to the right deal. The price was significantly lower than expected, making it feel like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The seller, who claimed to be a reputable broker, provided everything needed to make the deal seem authentic, contracts through an electronic signing service, a bill of sale, company documents, and a series of detailed photographs. Feeling secure, the buyer took out a loan and transferred the money, expecting his dream car to arrive shortly after.
But the car never showed up. The seller became unreachable, and the website that had hosted the listing vanished. The realization set in, he had been scammed. The financial hit was devastating, forcing him to cash out his retirement savings just to recover from the loss.
This case is far from unique. Experts in the auto industry warn that online car scams are becoming more sophisticated. Fraudulent sellers go to great lengths to create the illusion of legitimacy, making it crucial for buyers to remain vigilant.
Those familiar with the industry advise that one of the most important steps a buyer can take is to directly communicate with or meet the seller whenever possible. Researching a seller’s history, reading reviews, and searching for any signs of suspicious activity can prevent a financial disaster. It’s also wise to approach any unusually low price with skepticism, questioning why a vehicle is being sold for much less than market value.
Visual clues in photos can sometimes reveal red flags. If a listing claims to be from one region, but the background in the pictures doesn’t match that location, it’s worth investigating further. Another important step is verifying vehicle documents before any money changes hands. Requesting the VIN and checking a car’s history through services like CARFAX can help confirm whether a listing is legitimate. While running such reports may come with a small fee, it’s a minor expense compared to what scammers can steal.
For those navigating the world of online car buying, caution is key. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. The best defense against falling victim to fraud is thorough research, skepticism, and taking extra steps to verify a seller’s credibility. While this Virginia buyer’s dream car never arrived, he hopes that sharing his experience will prevent others from making the same costly mistake.
Scam alert stories have taken a new twist in Wisconsin, where a disturbing pattern of fraudulent car sales has emerged online. In recent developments, state transportation officials have observed a surge in deceptive practices by individuals posing as legitimate car dealerships. These con artists create polished online storefronts that mimic real businesses, using stock images and visuals of genuine vehicles to lure unsuspecting buyers into what appears to be a bargain.
The fraudulent operations begin with an elaborate digital setup. Fake websites and social media profiles are crafted to look like authentic dealership pages, complete with images that lend an air of legitimacy. Vehicles are often advertised at prices that seem too enticing to pass up, which, in reality, serve as bait to draw in potential buyers. The entire transaction is managed remotely, without any face-to-face meeting or physical inspection of the vehicle, a detail that, under normal circumstances, should raise a few red flags.
Once a prospective buyer is convinced by the attractive price and seamless online presentation, they are typically asked to complete a wire transfer. At that point, the scammer vanishes. Despite receiving documents that mimic a bill of sale, the buyer soon discovers that the vehicle either never existed or is impossible to retrieve. This pattern of deception highlights the sophisticated methods these fraudsters employ and underscores the need for caution when engaging in any transaction over the internet.
Wisconsin officials are urging consumers to exercise extreme caution in every step of their purchase process. They advise that anyone considering a vehicle purchase from an online source should conduct thorough research and verification. Confirming the legitimacy of a business through official channels can save one from the significant financial and emotional toll of falling victim to such scams. Even when the offer appears to be a once-in-a-lifetime deal, it is crucial to trust one’s instincts and seek additional validation.
The convenience of online transactions is often accompanied by hidden risks. The recent rise in fake car dealership scams serves as a stark reminder that a careful, measured approach is essential when dealing with unfamiliar entities online. Maintaining a healthy level of skepticism and taking the necessary steps to verify the authenticity of an offer can help ensure that what seems too good to be true doesn’t turn into a costly mistake.
The story of a man in Trussville, Alabama, who lost his Jeep Wrangler to a scam highlights a troubling trend in online marketplaces, the increasing vulnerability of sellers to fraud and the limited recourse available to victims. Selling a vehicle, especially one as valuable as a $25,000 Jeep, should not become a gateway to financial devastation. Yet, for this individual, the transaction ended in loss, frustration, and an uphill battle to reclaim justice.
The ordeal began with what seemed like a routine transaction. The seller advertised his vehicle on Facebook Marketplace, and a buyer expressed interest. They met in a public area with surveillance cameras in an effort to ensure safety during the exchange. The buyer handed over a cashier’s check, a seemingly secure method of payment. However, days later, the check was discovered to be fraudulent, leaving the seller without his vehicle or the promised payment.
The situation quickly spiraled into a complex and disheartening battle. While law enforcement identified a suspect and issued a warrant, the seller’s attempts to recover his losses through insurance were met with denial. His policy explicitly excluded coverage for losses stemming from fraudulent sales agreements, a clause that left him stranded financially. Despite being a long-time customer, his frustration with the insurance company’s decision underscores the broader issue, victims of scams often find themselves without meaningful support from institutions they’ve relied upon.
Adding insult to injury, the seller remains responsible for the remaining payments on a vehicle he no longer possesses. The Jeep is still legally his, yet it is out of reach, lost in the hands of a criminal. This situation is not unique to this case. It illustrates the stark reality faced by many scam victims, the legal and financial systems are ill-equipped or unwilling to offer timely restitution or support, leaving individuals to bear the burden of their losses.
Law enforcement officials have offered advice to help prevent similar scams, such as verifying buyer credentials and payment methods. These precautions, while valuable, place the onus of fraud prevention squarely on the shoulders of individuals. For those who are already victims, this advice comes too late, highlighting the need for systemic changes to address the growing sophistication of online scams.
The seller’s decision to pursue a civil suit against his insurer reflects his determination to seek justice, but it also shines a light on the lengthy and uncertain path many victims face when attempting to recover losses. For those who lack the resources or knowledge to navigate such processes, the outcome can be even more devastating.
This story serves as a grim reminder of the risks involved in high-value online sales and the lack of safeguards for those who fall prey to fraud. Without robust protections and a more victim-centered approach from insurers and banks, scam victims will continue to find themselves in a precarious position, navigating a system that often leaves them with little recourse.
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.
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, a devastating blow has left Rod Ashby grappling not only with the tragic disappearance of his wife, Kim, but also with an unexpected financial nightmare. As he continues his desperate search for Kim in the rugged mountains of western North Carolina, a scam has stripped him of nearly $40,000, money that was meant to buy him the necessary vehicle to aid in his search.
Rod and Kim, who lived in Sanford, North Carolina, were at their mountain cabin near Banner Elk when the hurricane struck. When floodwaters overtook their home, the couple clung to each other, fighting against the relentless force of the water. Tragically, their grip was broken as they struck a tree, and Rod, though able to make it to safety, hasn’t seen Kim since. More than a month has passed, and Rod’s hope for closure remains as fierce as ever. In these weeks, with family by his side, Rod has returned to the mountains, joined by search crews in his unwavering pursuit of his missing wife.
However, the search has not been without obstacles. The hurricane destroyed Rod’s truck, leaving him without a reliable means to navigate the steep, muddy mountain roads. Staying with family in Pittsboro, he resolved to find a replacement, a four-wheel drive vehicle capable of tackling the treacherous terrain where he believes he may still find Kim. In his search, he found what he thought was an ideal solution, a 2020 Ford F-350 listed online at $38,900, advertised by a Colorado-based business specializing in repossessed vehicles. Although Rod’s daughter was initially skeptical, the transaction seemed legitimate. The phone calls, emails, and even a formal bill of sale all appeared authentic. But soon after wiring the money, they began to suspect the deal was not what it seemed. The truck remained listed on the website, and their follow-up inquiries began to go unanswered.
The heartbreaking reality soon became clear: the truck did not exist, and the business was nothing more than an elaborate imitation of a legitimate dealership. Rod and his family contacted the banks involved and filed a fraud report, only to face an agonizing wait, potentially 90 days, to see if they might recover any of the lost funds. This setback, another blow in an already unimaginable situation, struck a deep nerve. For Rod, time is crucial; each day that passes is another without the closure he seeks, another day he cannot be out on the mountain, hoping to bring Kim home.
The legitimate business that the scammer had copied reported that they had been flooded with similar cases, with people across the country falling victim to the same deceptive tactics. The scammer’s scheme of underpricing vehicles preyed on those seeking a good deal, especially people in urgent situations like Rod. The business owner, aware of the far-reaching effects of these scams, is now working with law enforcement to prevent further victims. The Ashby family, however, is left grappling with the emotional and financial consequences of this betrayal.
Rod’s story serves as a sobering reminder of the risks of online transactions, especially when urgency and emotional stakes are high. Scammers prey on those who might let their guard down due to stress, grief, or pressing need, and, as Rod’s experience highlights, they can convincingly replicate legitimate businesses to the unsuspecting eye. While law enforcement investigates, the Ashby family and their supporters are forced to wait, their lives altered by a combination of natural disaster and human deceit.
Avoiding online scams, especially when buying high-value items like vehicles, requires vigilance and careful verification. Here are some essential steps to safeguard against falling victim to such schemes.
First, thoroughly research the seller. Start by searching for the dealership or business name online. Legitimate businesses often have an established presence with a verifiable website, social media profiles, and customer reviews. Be wary of any dealership that lacks a history or only has a recently created website or social media page, as scammers frequently create ‘shell’ sites to impersonate legitimate businesses.
Verify contact information on official channels. Instead of relying on phone numbers or emails provided on a specific site, cross-check them with official listings or other trusted sources. A simple call to the real business can often confirm whether they are associated with the listing. If possible, visit the dealership in person or ask a trusted contact nearby to confirm the vehicle’s availability and condition.
Avoid paying via wire transfer whenever possible. Wire transfers offer little protection for buyers, as once funds are sent, they are challenging to recover. Reputable dealerships typically accept other, safer forms of payment that offer some level of recourse, such as credit cards or certified checks. If a seller insists on a wire transfer, especially to a personal account or a different name than the business, this is a major red flag.
Use a vehicle history report service to verify the vehicle’s existence and ownership records. Services like Carfax or AutoCheck allow you to input the vehicle identification number (VIN) and receive detailed information about the car’s history, including its ownership, accident history, and maintenance records. Scammers may avoid providing a VIN, or give a fake one, so this step can help confirm a vehicle’s legitimacy.
Carefully review documents and be skeptical of underpriced deals. Deals that appear too good to be true often are, as scammers tend to price vehicles attractively to bypass buyers’ usual caution. Examine all documentation for inconsistencies, such as misspellings, unusual formatting, or unfamiliar terms in contracts or sales agreements.
If possible, work with your bank to escrow funds or use a secure payment platform that can hold funds in trust until the vehicle is confirmed. Some banks and online services offer escrow accounts that protect funds until both parties are satisfied with the transaction, ensuring a level of security in case something goes awry.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to seek advice from others, especially friends or family with experience in buying vehicles online. A second set of eyes can often spot red flags that might be overlooked. And if a purchase ever feels off, listen to that instinct. Taking time to verify details can be the best defense against the heartache and financial loss of falling victim to a scam.
By taking these precautions, buyers can greatly reduce the risk of being scammed, even in high-stakes, emotionally charged situations like Rod Ashby’s. Scammers thrive on desperation and urgency, so maintaining a level of caution, even in challenging times, can protect you from becoming a victim.
As hurricane season wreaks havoc on communities, the aftermath often brings unexpected consequences for car buyers. Among the hidden dangers are flood-damaged vehicles making their way into the used car market. Once the floodwaters recede, many of these cars are cleaned up and sold at auctions, with some landing in the driveways of unsuspecting buyers across the country. Even if you live far from the storm-affected areas, these cars can end up in your local market, as flood-damaged vehicles are often transported and resold nationwide.
Flood damage can cause severe problems for vehicles, affecting everything from electronics to mechanical components. Unfortunately, these issues aren’t always immediately apparent. In some cases, flood-damaged vehicles are sold before damage reports surface, leaving buyers with little protection. While popular tools like vehicle history reports are helpful, they are not foolproof. Buyers should understand that flood damage may not always be flagged right away, or even at all.
To avoid purchasing a car that’s been through a flood, it’s essential to take proactive steps. One of the best ways to protect yourself is by getting an independent mechanical inspection before buying any used vehicle. This extra precaution can help identify hidden damage that a quick cleanup or a vehicle history report might not reveal.
Although it’s legal to resell flood-damaged vehicles, they should carry a rebuilt title to indicate that the necessary repairs have been made. However, the hidden damage, such as rust under carpets or water in electrical components, can still lead to long-term issues. Rusted metal, malfunctioning electronics, and waterlogged parts can significantly shorten a car’s lifespan and increase the chances of costly repairs.
In summary, if you’re in the market for a used car following hurricane season, take the time to research and inspect before committing to a purchase. Flood-damaged vehicles can show up anywhere in the country, so protecting yourself involves diligence, skepticism, and securing an independent inspection to ensure you’re not buying a car with hidden water damage.
Bud and June Runion were a loving couple, cherished by their family and friends. In January 2015, they set off on what they believed would be an exciting adventure to purchase a 1966 Ford Mustang, a classic car Bud had long admired. They found the vehicle listed for sale on Craigslist and made arrangements to meet the seller in McRae, Georgia.
When the Runions failed to return home or contact their family, concern quickly turned to alarm. Their family reported them missing, igniting a widespread search and a wave of anxiety among those who knew them.
The search came to a tragic end on a few days later, when authorities discovered the bodies of Bud and June Runion in a remote area of Telfair County, Georgia. The couple had been shot to death, their lives cruelly taken in an act of senseless violence.
The investigation swiftly honed in on Ronnie Adrian “Jay” Towns, a local man from McRae. Towns had allegedly posted the fake Craigslist ad intending to lure and rob the couple. When the Runions arrived, Towns led them to an isolated location where he carried out his heinous crime.
Due to legal complications and delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Towns has yet to stand trial.
Bud and June Runion’s story is one of love, loss, and a call to action. While their lives were tragically cut short, their legacy lives on as a beacon of awareness and a reminder to always stay cautious in online dealings.
When shopping on online platforms for a used or classic car, safety should be your top priority. Here are several steps to help protect yourself from potential dangers such as robbery or worse. Check the seller’s name, phone number, and email address. Use search engines and social media to see if the information matches. Request detailed information about the car. A legitimate seller should be able to provide this without hesitation.
Schedule meetings during daylight hours when visibility is better and more people are around. Always meet in a public place with high foot traffic, such as a police station, bank parking lot, or a shopping center. While it’s not a guarantee, meeting at a police station significantly discourages criminals from targeting you.
Bring a friend or family member with you. If that’s not possible, inform someone of your whereabouts and the details of your meeting. Provide someone with the seller’s information and the meeting location.
Avoid carrying large sums of cash. Consider using secure payment methods like bank checks or electronic transfers. If a cash payment is necessary, conduct the transaction inside a bank where security measures are in place.
By following these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of being robbed or harmed while shopping for a used or classic car online. Always prioritize your personal safety over the potential deal.
Driving a new car is a thrill, but what if you end up unknowingly paying for someone else’s joyride? A concerning scam is targeting unsuspecting individuals and leaving them on the hook for cars they never intended to buy.
One car dealership in Traverse City, Michigan, has encountered this disturbing scam that preys on both car dealers and buyers. Recently, the dealership experienced a close call with a scam that appeared legitimate. Here’s how it typically unfolds: scammers pose as legitimate buyers, providing all necessary contact details and expressing interest in purchasing a vehicle online. They often request that the car be delivered to an offsite location. Everything seems above board until the credit application process begins.
The dealership conducts due diligence, asking many questions. These questions are crucial because, more often than not, the supposed buyers are using stolen identities to complete the purchase. Once the deal is done, the scammer drives away in a new car, leaving the real person whose identity was stolen to deal with the fallout. Despite these efforts, there are still many potential victims—dealerships, identity theft victims, and even lenders.
It’s emphasized to stay on top of your credit. Monitoring credit inquiries can alert individuals to any unauthorized activity, allowing them to act quickly. Locking your credit with all three major bureaus is a recommended step. This measure makes it impossible for the financing paperwork to go through and stops the scam in its tracks. Many financial institutions also offer services that monitor social security numbers and alert individuals to any suspicious activity.
While dealerships and lenders are increasingly aware of this scam, it’s crucial for everyone to stay informed. The digital nature of these transactions can leave a traceable footprint, aiding law enforcement in tracking down perpetrators. However, even with these tools, convictions remain challenging due to the scammers’ adeptness at covering their tracks.
The convenience of online car shopping is undeniable, but taking precautions can ensure that you’re not inadvertently paying for someone else’s ride.
In recent times, there has been a noticeable increase in scams involving the sale of stolen vehicles online. These fraudulent schemes often take place on popular platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. The common thread among these scams is the suspiciously low price tag on the vehicles, which is significantly below their actual market value.
The scam operates in a deceptive yet sophisticated manner. Criminals acquire a stolen vehicle and then search for another car with the same make, model, and similar mileage. They use the legitimate vehicle’s details to create a counterfeit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) sticker, which is then applied to the stolen car. This fake VIN gives the vehicle a seemingly clean history, making it appear legitimate to unsuspecting buyers.
Potential buyers are lured in by what they perceive to be an incredible deal. The vehicle’s history appears spotless, with no indication that it has been stolen. However, the reality of the situation becomes apparent only after the purchase is complete. Once the buyer discovers that the vehicle is stolen, they face the harsh truth that the car must be returned to its rightful owner or the insurance company. This leaves the buyer without the vehicle and out of the money they spent.
The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) has issued several warnings regarding this scam. According to the DFA, the largest red flag is the vehicle being sold for cash only at a price significantly lower than its actual value. Most recently, scammers have been targeting newer model pickup trucks, offering them for tens of thousands of dollars below retail value.
The DFA advises buyers to exercise caution when searching for vehicles on these sites. Here are some key tips to avoid falling victim to this scam. Always verify the vehicle’s history through reliable sources. Be suspicious of any discrepancies or missing information. Legitimate sellers are usually open to various forms of payment. Insistence on cash transactions can be a red flag.
Ensure the VIN on the vehicle matches the one on the title and other documents. Check for signs of tampering or replacement stickers. Consider using professional services to inspect the vehicle and verify its legitimacy before completing the purchase.
By following these guidelines, buyers can better protect themselves from falling victim to these fraudulent activities. While online platforms offer the convenience of purchasing vehicles, they also present opportunities for scammers. Staying informed and cautious can help prevent unfortunate and costly mistakes.
In summary, the public is urged to remain cautious when encountering seemingly fantastic deals on vehicles. Performing due diligence and recognizing the warning signs can save buyers from the pitfalls of this growing scam.
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