Exposing the ‘Ghost Car’ Scam: How Sydney Drivers Are Being Targeted by Fraudulent Sellers

A sophisticated scam has been uncovered in Sydney, where scammers are posing as legitimate car sellers, advertising non-existent vehicles to unsuspecting buyers. The scammers, who are often based overseas, use fake websites, social media profiles, and online marketplaces to advertise the ‘ghost cars’. They provide fake photos, descriptions, and even fake vehicle identification numbers to make the cars appear legitimate. Once a buyer expresses interest, the scammers will typically ask for a deposit or full payment to be made via bank transfer or other online payment methods. However, once the payment is made, the scammers disappear, leaving the buyer without a car and out of pocket. The scam has been reported to have cost Sydney drivers thousands of dollars, with some victims losing up to $10,000. The scammers are using advanced tactics to evade detection, including using virtual private networks (VPNs) and encrypted communication channels. The NSW Police Force has issued a warning to drivers to be cautious when buying cars online, and to always verify the seller’s identity and the car’s existence before making a payment. Drivers are also being advised to use reputable online marketplaces and to be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has also issued a warning about the scam, and is working with law enforcement agencies to track down the scammers. The ‘ghost car’ scam is just one of many online scams that are targeting Australians, with the ACCC reporting a significant increase in online scams in recent years. The scam is not only limited to Sydney, with reports of similar scams being carried out in other cities across Australia. The NSW Government has announced plans to introduce new laws to crack down on online scams, including increasing penalties for scammers and providing more support for victims. In the meantime, drivers are being urged to be vigilant when buying cars online, and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities. The ‘ghost car’ scam is a reminder of the importance of being cautious when making online transactions, and of the need for increased awareness and education about online scams. By being aware of the scam and taking steps to protect themselves, drivers can avoid becoming the next victim. The scam has also highlighted the need for greater cooperation between law enforcement agencies and online marketplaces to prevent and detect online scams. The ‘ghost car’ scam is a complex and sophisticated scam that requires a coordinated effort to combat. The NSW Police Force and the ACCC are working together to track down the scammers and bring them to justice. In addition to the financial losses, the scam is also causing significant emotional distress for the victims, who are often left feeling embarrassed and vulnerable. The ‘ghost car’ scam is a reminder that online scams can happen to anyone, and that it’s essential to be proactive in protecting yourself from these types of scams. By staying informed and being cautious when making online transactions, you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim of the ‘ghost car’ scam or other online scams.

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