Scammers Clone Real Car Dealership Websites to Collect Upfront Payments for Cars That Do Not Exist
Scammers clone a real auto dealer's website, sometimes with AI, copying the brand logos, vehicle listings, and photos in detail. Some sites even include fake customer testimonials. They advertise rare muscle cars or hard-to-find classics to pull you in, describe the buying process in detail, and offer flexible return policies to put you at ease.
When you show up, the real dealership has no record of your order or your payment. The FTC's advice: search the dealer's name with "scam," "review," or "complaint," and remember that glowing reviews may be faked, too. Ask to see the car in person — or through a mobile inspection service if it is far away. If the dealer insists on wire transfer only for an upfront payment, walk away.
What to look for
- A dealer website with rare or classic vehicles at prices that pull you in
- Negative search hits for the dealer's name with "scam" or "complaint" — or suspiciously glowing reviews
- A refusal to let you see the car or dealership in person or through a mobile inspection service
- A demand for upfront payment by wire transfer only
What to do
Verify the car and dealership in person or through a mobile inspection service, and walk away from any dealer who insists on upfront payment by wire transfer only.