NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — The NYPD and New York State DMV have noticed a surge in online scams involving the sale of stolen cars, and the agencies are alerting consumers of the dangers of making a unregulated purchases.
Officials warned New Yorkers to be wary of cars for sale on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist and similar resale websites. Recent investigations by the DMV and law enforcement have discovered an increase in stolen car sales on those sites, including the sale of vehicles sporting altered identification numbers and forged titles.
“When someone is purchasing a vehicle through a private sale, they lose the protections that are afforded to them when they buy from an auto dealer, so it is very important that buyers take every precaution they can to make sure they are buying from a reputable seller,” DMV Commissioner Mark Schroeder said. “Unfortunately, there are many scammers out there waiting to take advantage of someone who needs a low-cost vehicle.”
In the last week, the state DMV said that it has recovered 228 stolen vehicles worth $6.35 million. Of the 228 vehicles, 149 were purchased by a victim who saw it posted on a resale site.
To avoid being victimized by these scams, authorities recommend that consumers check all documentation (title with a lien release, VIN, odometer reading) while remaining aware they could be doctored.
Purchasers should also examine the vehicle in bright daylight for external and internal damage, check the engine compartment, ensure exhaust emissions control systems work and start the vehicle while the engine is cold. Also, the state DMV recommends paying in a cashier’s check, not cash.
“The NYPD’s message is clear: Before completing an online transaction, verify the credentials of the other party, thoroughly research the vehicle's history, avoid carrying cash, and insist on meeting at a designated and signposted e-commerce exchange location that is public and safe,” NYPD Interim Commissioner Thomas Donlon said. “This includes sites that are under 24-hour video surveillance at each of the NYPD’s 77 police precincts.”
For additional guidance on car buying, check the DMV website, and find a registered automotive dealer in the state with its search tool.
To protect your assets, check the state’s new vehicle theft prevention website and get additional information on stolen and recovered vehicles from the DMV website.