### Private Car Sellers Targeted in Sophisticated Scams, Experts Warn
For many individuals across the UK, selling a car privately online is a straightforward way to either upgrade to a newer model or unlock some much-needed funds. However, according to recent warnings from industry professionals, those hoping for a quick and hassle-free sale are increasingly at risk of falling victim to ruthless and sophisticated scams.
Paul Jones of ARF Private Investigators has drawn attention to the alarming surge in fraudulent tactics targeting private car sellers. Drawing from his own casework, Mr Jones explained how criminals are preying on individuals by using deceptive and convincing methods that leave sellers without both their vehicle and payment—with little hope of recovery.
One of the most prevalent scams involves the use of fake bank transfers. “Scammers approach sellers, pose as genuine buyers, and then display screenshots or emails on their phone that purport to show payment has been sent or is pending,” Mr Jones revealed. “They pressure the seller to hand over the keys before the funds have actually been received.” By the time the seller notices that no money has arrived in their account, their vehicle is already long gone, often having changed hands multiple times.
Another variation designed to catch sellers out is known as the ‘overpayment scam’. Here, a buyer contacts the seller, offering to transfer an amount that is more than the agreed sale price—say, £7,000 for a vehicle advertised at £5,000. The fraudster then claims that the overpayment was a genuine error and asks for the excess to be transferred back to them. Though the full payment may briefly appear in the seller’s account, it typically transpires later that the funds originated from stolen bank details or a fake account, which is then reversed by the bank. Because of this, sellers end up both minus their car and out of pocket for the considerable ‘refund’ they so trustingly returned.
The mechanics behind these frauds are increasingly sophisticated and often take advantage of the technology that is meant to make banking more secure. Criminals may use hacked accounts or purloined identity details to initiate payments that initially look legitimate. Mr Jones described scenarios in which scammers create dummy deposit screens using mobile banking apps to convince sellers the money has landed. “It feels safe, as everything looks ‘cleared’ at first,” he cautioned, “but within days, the rug is pulled out and the funds disappear—leaving sellers powerless.”
So, how can sellers protect themselves in this climate? Experts recommend maintaining a healthy scepticism. “Never release a vehicle until you see cleared funds in your account—not just a notification or a screenshot, but the actual money, available to withdraw,” Mr Jones insisted. “Genuine buyers will have no issue waiting for the funds to fully clear.” Any pressure to rush the process, he added, should raise immediate alarm bells.
Awareness is key in avoiding these costly cons. Secure payment methods such as bank transfers—completed and confirmed within your online banking—offer greater peace of mind, but only if you wait until the amount appears as available in your account. Sellers are also urged to watch for signs of impatience or evasive behaviour, as these are common ploys used to hurry the handover before funds have safely arrived.
Industry experts acknowledge that the digitalisation of car sales has brought considerable convenience but stress that it has also created new avenues for unscrupulous activity. The consensus is clear: while most car transactions are conducted in good faith, the small percentage that go awry can have devastating financial and emotional consequences for those caught in the web of deceit.
In light of these warnings, authorities are urging private car sellers to remain vigilant and exercise caution at every stage of the transaction. With online crime on the rise, securing a sale is no longer just about finding the right buyer—but also about safeguarding yourself from those who are intent on profiting at your expense.
As online marketplaces continue to thrive, the onus falls on both platforms and individuals to remain alert to emerging threats. By arming themselves with knowledge, car sellers can reduce their chances of becoming yet another statistic in this growing wave of automotive scams.