Car swap scams to watch for

The golden rule

If something feels rushed, too good to be true, or you are being pushed to skip a check, slow down. A genuine swap partner will happily wait while you do the checks.

Common warning signs

• They will not meet in person, or want you to pay a deposit or "hold" fee first.
• The price or the car looks too good compared with similar ones.
• The name on the registration papers does not match the person you are dealing with, and the explanation is vague.
• They refuse a history check on the VIN, or the VIN on the car does not match the papers.
• They push you to move the conversation off the platform right away, or send you links to pay or "verify" anything.
• They ask for gift cards, crypto or a transfer to a third party.
• The odometer looks wrong for the car's condition.

Habits that protect you

• Run a PPSR check on the VIN before you commit.
• Inspect the car in person and, if you can, bring someone who knows cars or book a pre-purchase inspection.
• Meet in a public place in daylight and tell someone where you will be.
• Never send money for a car you have not seen.
• Keep your messages and the signed paperwork.

If something goes wrong

Stop dealing with the person, keep all messages, and report it. On WYG you can use the Report button on any ad or profile. For fraud or theft, contact your state police or ScamWatch, the national scam reporting service.