Pause when the story cannot be checked
Copied photos, pressure for an immediate deposit and excuses that prevent an inspection can appear in buying scams. A low price or a new profile is a reason to ask for evidence, not proof that the car is stolen, written off or imaginary. A phone call cannot establish ownership or guarantee that a seller is legitimate.
Check three separate things
- The seller: establish whether the sale is private or through a business. Check identity and authority to sell against the vehicle documents in person. A public rego lookup does not show the owner's name.
- The car: inspect it, match the physical VIN to the documents and arrange an independent mechanical inspection. Use a current PPSR search for recorded security interests and available stolen/write-off information; it is not a condition assessment.
- The payment: verify the recipient and agreed terms before sending money. Do not pay for an unseen car you have not verified. If identity, vehicle details or the payment request cannot be reconciled, pause.
If you have already sent money
Contact your bank or payment provider immediately, stop further payments and keep the advert and messages. Report the incident to the platform and Scamwatch. Recovery is not guaranteed.
Use the existing tools
Start a free listing check to organise supplied car details and evidence to gather. If Facebook blocks the link, enter those details manually. Take the free inspection checklist to the car. The optional Listing Review works from pasted advert text and your concerns; it does not verify the seller or vehicle history. Check current product availability before ordering.