Consumers should be extremely cautious when purchasing cars from private sellers on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist and other similar websites, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles warned on October 22.
The agency recently said there has been a sharp increase in sales of stolen vehicles at the locations, including vehicles with altered identification numbers and forged titles.
Buying a car from a private seller can be cheaper upfront. However, “When someone purchases a vehicle through a private sale, they lose the protection afforded them when purchasing from a car dealer, so it is very important that buyers take every possible precaution to ensure they are buying from a car dealer buy. a reputable seller,” said DMV Commissioner Mark JF Schroeder. “Unfortunately, there are many scammers waiting to take advantage of someone in need of a cheap vehicle.”
As of October 15, the state DMV had recovered 228 stolen vehicles. Of these, 149 were purchased by victims through online sales.
The DMV recommends that buyers take the following steps to avoid being scammed:
∎ Make sure the seller has title in their name, with a lien release if applicable. Ask for identification.
∎ Always ensure that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the vehicle matches the VIN on the title.
∎ Check the VIN online to see if it has been reported stolen.
∎ Check mileage online. It won’t be an exact match, but if the vehicle’s mileage drops compared to the records, that’s a red flag.
∎ Use a check made out to the seller instead of paying in cash.
∎ Be wary of sellers who claim to be authorized dealers, who do not have a registered office, or who use out-of-state dealer paperwork, an out-of-state dealer plate, or an out-of-state license plate.
∎ Do not use a temporary registration certificate or license plate unless it is issued by the state DMV or an authorized DMV facility.
Reporter Marcia Greenwood handles general assignments and has a particular interest in retail news. Send story tips to mgreenwo@rocheste.gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @MarciaGreenwood.
This article originally appeared on the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: DMV issues warnings about rise in online car sales scams
