A Craigslist auto transport scam occurs when an individual or
company posts a fraudulent advertisement on Craigslist in
order to steal the personal information, money, or identity of
potential customers. The scammer may offer a low-priced auto
transport service or promise to deliver an automobile to the
customer, but never actually do so. The scammer may also ask
for upfront payment for services that are never rendered, or
ask for personal information such as banking or credit card
information. In some cases, the scammer may even offer a
vehicle for sale, but never deliver the car after payment is
made.
Craigslist is a popular online classifieds website, which can
be a great place to buy and sell items. Unfortunately, it can
also be a platform for scammers looking to take advantage of
unsuspecting buyers. One of the most common scams on
Craigslist is the auto transport scam.
This scam involves someone posing as a legitimate auto
transport company. They will post an advertisement on
Craigslist offering to transport a vehicle from one place to
another for a fee. However, instead of actually transporting
the vehicle, they will simply take the payment and disappear.
The scammers will usually require payment upfront, either
through a wire transfer or bitcoin. Once they have received
the payment, they will disappear and the buyer will never hear
from them again. The buyer will also never get their vehicle
delivered, and they will be out of pocket for the money they
sent.
The scammers tend to target people who don’t know much about
auto transport services, such as those who have recently moved
or are looking to buy a car in another state. They may also
target people who are desperate for a deal on auto transport,
as the scammers typically offer lower prices than legitimate
companies.
Best way to avoid this scam :
- The best way to avoid this scam is to do your research before
you send any money. - Make sure you are dealing with a legitimate auto transport company by reading reviews, checking
their license, and asking for references. - Never pay upfront for services, as this is a red flag for a scam.
- If you think you may have been a victim of an auto transport
scam, contact the police and file a report. - You should also contact your bank or credit card provider and let them know
what happened. - you can contact Craigslist and report the scammer so other people won’t fall for the same trick.
- Auto transport scams on Craigslist are unfortunately common,
but by taking the necessary precautions you can protect
yourself from becoming a victim. - Do your research, never pay upfront, and if you think you’ve been scammed, report it to
the authorities.