Potential Scam Alert for Car Sellers: Beware of Bank Transfer Offers
I’m not sure the best place to share this, but I recently received an email from a car buyer who proposed a bank transfer through CommBank. It raised some red flags for me, and I’m now questioning its safety and legitimacy.
Update: After doing some research, I found that this is actually a common scam (thank you, previous Reddit discussions!).
I’m sharing the email content here to help others avoid falling for it. It appears to be a standardized scam message:
“What’s the final price? Why are you selling? Are there any repairs needed? What’s your postal code? I accept the condition as described. Note: I’m located in a remote area with limited phone access, so I’ll communicate only through here. I’ll pay via EFT or PayPal; please provide your BSB and account number. My courier will handle pick up and delivery to Darwin once the funds clear. I only need a receipt—no registration or roadworthy certificate is necessary since it won’t be valid here. I will register the vehicle myself in NT Darwin.”
Stay safe and vigilant when dealing with potential buyers!
It’s good that you’re being cautious about this situation. Many scammers use similar tactics to trick sellers into giving away their valuable items without actually paying for them.
Here are some red flags that suggest this might be a scam:
Unusual Payment Requests: Asking for bank transfer details or PayPal payments can sometimes be a trap. Scammers often exploit these platforms, taking advantage of their policies to claim they never received the item.
Reasons for Limited Communication: The excuse of being in a remote area with limited phone access is often used by scammers to avoid live conversations, where they could be caught out.
Courier Pickup without Payment: Legitimate buyers usually prefer to inspect the car before making a payment. If they say they need a courier to pick up the car without meeting you first, that’s a significant red flag.
Unnecessary Documentation: The mention that no registration or roadworthy certificate is required might be an attempt to keep you from verifying their legitimacy or following proper sale protocols.
Always prioritize safety in these transactions. If you decide to proceed, consider alternatives like meeting in person with a trusted friend or family member, using an escrow service, or only accepting cash or other secure forms of payment. Stay vigilant, and thanks for sharing the warning with others!