Car fraud for the military: how the schemes work and how not to get caught
In times of war, providing the military with vehicles is critical. Volunteers organize fundraisers to buy cars for the frontline, as transport increases mobility and helps them perform combat missions. However, this noble goal attracts fraudsters who try to take advantage of people’s trust and make money on it.
How do fraud schemes work?
The main scheme involves fake ads for the sale of cars for the army. Fraudsters create convincing ads with favorable prices and “guarantees” to attract the attention of volunteers. After the money is transferred, the seller disappears. But this is only one of the methods.
Other popular fraudulent schemes include:
- Fake fundraisers. Attackers create accounts on social media or fundraising platforms where they post touching stories, often accompanied by photos from the frontline. They misappropriate the funds raised from people who care.
- Fictitious volunteer organizations. Fraudsters can create fake foundations that allegedly purchase cars for the military. They may even have fake documents that look convincing.
- Fraud through intermediaries. Intermediaries offer “help” with buying a car, but take money upfront without providing any real services.
THE MAIN THING IS TO ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT CARS (JEEPS, PICKUPS, BUSES) DON’T COME FOR $1500. DO NOT SKIMP ON PREPAYMENTS, WORK WITH THOSE YOU KNOW AND TRUST. SAVE YOUR MONEY!!!