Rowan our Cyber Security Expert on ITV West Country

Rowan our Cyber Security Expert on ITV West Country - Avoiding Online Car Sales Scams

In today's digital age, buying and selling cars online has become increasingly common. However, this convenience also brings with it the risk of scams. Our Cyber Security Expert, Rowan Turner, recently discussed this issue on ITV West Country, January 19, highlighting a concerning trend where scammers use genuine car photos to create fake listings on platforms like Meta Marketplace. 

You can find the episode here - the news story starts at 0:11:25 to 0:14:32

Scammers are exploiting the trust of potential car buyers by posting authentic-looking ads with real vehicle photos. They often ask for deposits from interested customers. Unfortunately, when buyers arrive at the supposed location to collect their vehicles, they find it’s a fake address, and no car exists. These scams are not only financially damaging but also erode trust in online marketplaces.

See Before You Pay: Always ensure you see the car in person before transferring any money. Pictures can be deceiving, and seeing the car allows you to verify its condition and existence.

Check the Seller's History: Be wary of brand new accounts on online marketplaces. Scammers often create new accounts for each scam to avoid detection. A seller with a longer, positive transaction history is generally more trustworthy.

Secure Payment Methods: Use secure, traceable payment methods. Avoid wire transfers or cash payments, as these are harder to trace and recover in case of a scam.

Additional Safety Tips:
Do Your Research: Check the vehicle's history report and verify its details.
Meet in Safe Locations: Choose public, well-lit places for vehicle viewing.
Trust Your Instincts: If a deal feels too good to be true, it probably is.

At Mark One Consultants, we understand the importance of staying safe online. These tips from our Cyber Security Expert, Rowan Turner, are not just applicable to car sales but can be used as general guidelines for any online transactions. Stay vigilant and always do your due diligence, especially during the festive season when scammers are even more actively.

For more information on how to protect yourself online or for IT support, feel free to contact us at Mark One Consultants. Our team of experts is here to ensure your digital safety and peace of mind.