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      Beware of Car Buyer Scams

      Understand common buyer scams and how to identify them

      When selling your specialty car online, you’re likely to encounter genuine buyers who share your passion. However, scams targeting sellers are also a concern, and one of the most common is the “fake buyer” shipping scam. Understanding how it works and how to avoid it can help you stay protected.

      How the Scam Works

      1. Initial Contact: A scammer poses as a buyer and expresses strong interest in purchasing your car, often without much negotiation or concern about the price and/or inspection.

      2. Payment Proposal: The scammer sends a check or offers an electronic payment for more than the agreed-upon price. They claim the excess is to cover shipping costs.

      3. Shipper Arrangement: The scammer asks you to pay their "shipper" directly using the extra money provided. The payment might be requested via wire transfer, gift cards, or other untraceable methods.

      4. The Fake Check: Banks initially credit the check amount to your account, but after a few days, it bounces because it’s fraudulent. By then, you may have already sent money to the scammer’s "shipper," resulting in a financial loss.

      Red Flags to Watch For

      • Overpayment Offers: Legitimate buyers don’t overpay for shipping or any other reason.

      • Urgency or Pressure: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to rush you into acting without verifying.

      • Unusual Payment Methods: Requests for gift cards, or other unconventional methods are a major warning sign.

      • Reluctance to Meet: Scammers typically avoid in-person interactions or inspections.

      How to Protect Yourself

      1. Verify Payment Methods: Accept only secure payment methods, such as verified bank transfers or escrow services. You may want to consider using a service like KeySavvy or DealNow for secure transactions.

      2. Don’t Pay Third Parties: Never agree to pay a buyer’s shipper or any other third party. Legitimate buyers handle their own shipping arrangements.

      3. Wait for Clearance: If accepting a check, wait until your bank confirms that the funds have fully cleared—this can take up to two weeks.

      4. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, take a step back and reassess the situation.

      What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

      • Stop Communication: Cease all contact with the potential scammer immediately.

      • Report the Incident: Notify us at pitcrew@classic.com and provide details of the interaction.

      • Contact Your Bank: Inform your bank if you’ve deposited a suspicious check.

      • File a Complaint: Report the scam to your local authorities and/or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

      Final Thoughts

      Scams can be discouraging, but with vigilance and caution, you can safely navigate the process of selling your car online. Always prioritize secure payment methods, rely on trusted platforms, and never hesitate to seek advice if something seems amiss.

      Stay safe and happy selling!