Contents
In short
- Never send a deposit for a car you haven't seen in person.
- Fake escrow and shipping companies are a classic online scam.
- Curbstoners pose as private sellers to sell problem cars.
- Check the title, the seller's ID and the VIN before any payment.
- Meet in a public place, ideally at a bank or a police station's safe exchange zone.
The most common scams
- Phantom car: an attractive price, a seller who's “deployed” or “relocated”, and the car will be “shipped” after payment. It doesn't exist.
- Fake escrow: a website imitating a payment protection service. Your money goes straight to the scammer.
- Gift card or wire payment: legitimate sellers don't ask for them.
- Curbstoners: unlicensed dealers posing as private owners, often selling branded or problem cars.
- Title fraud: washed, forged or open titles. See title transfer.
Warning signs
- A price far below market value.
- A seller who won't talk on the phone or meet.
- Pressure: “other buyers”, “must sell today”.
- A title in someone else's name, or no title “yet”.
- The same phone number on several car ads.
How to buy safely
- Check the VIN for recalls and title brands. See VIN and recalls.
- See the car and the seller in person, in daylight and in a safe public place.
- Compare the seller's ID with the name on the title.
- Pay by cashier's check or at the seller's bank once you have the signed title and the keys.
- Get a bill of sale with the VIN, mileage, price and both signatures.
Written by
The Carvizia team
Every day we analyze used car listings: engines, common problems, maintenance and market value. Our guides bring together what to check before you buy, without jargon.
About usFrequently asked questions
Is it safe to pay through an escrow service suggested by the seller?
No. Scammers create fake escrow sites. Never use a payment service the seller chose.
How do I spot a curbstoner?
Several cars on the same number, a title in someone else's name, and meetings only in parking lots are common signs.
What should I do if I've been scammed?
Contact your bank immediately, report it to the FTC and local police, and keep all messages and payment details.