Buyer Beware – Tips for Avoiding Scams
Prevention Isn’t Expensive, It’s Priceless
Here are some common red flags for any vehicle purchase—from cars, trucks and boats, to ATVs, snowmobiles, motorcycles, RVs and more.
If any of the following types of payments are being requested, it’s time to pump the brakes. Never pay for vehicles using eBay gift cards as this is ALWAYS a scam:
- eBay gift card
- Western Union
- MoneyGram
- PayPal MyCash card
- iTunes card
- Walmart card
- RELoadit card
- OneVanilla card
- GreenDot
- Direct Bank Transfer where the bank account is provided
Pricing Seems Too Good to be True
Criminals like a good scheme, and they love to prey on emotions. What better way to do that than by offering a vehicle you are interested in at an unrealistically low price? Check Blue Book and NADA values. If they don’t add up to what’s being offered, then pass it by.
Pushing for a Speedy Close
A bad actor will almost always push for a fast close and will often request payment through what might look like a familiar service or payment method. The result will likely further separate you from your dream transportation—and your money.
Requests for Bank Transfers and Wire Payments
Use caution when direct bank transfers and wire payments are being requested by a seller—especially prior to receipt or pick up. (It’s also always a good idea to inspect the vehicle in person before sending any money.)
The following are considered legitimate methods of payment, although sometimes they are still used to defraud users:
- Cash (in person)
- Credit Card
- PayPal
- Bill Me Later
- Money Order
- Cashier's Check
- Financial Loans
- Personal Check
- Escrow Accounts*
*eBay Motors recommends using our approved escrow service with Escrow.com click https://pages.ebay.com/
