According to stopfake.kz, scammers are posting advertisements online for the sale of a car. The offer appears to be very attractive: a good vehicle with low mileage at a price significantly below market value. The seller claims they are selling the car due to a relative's illness or other family circumstances, as reported by Kazpravda.kz
As soon as a potential buyer expresses interest, they are asked to make a deposit. The seller states that there are several interested buyers, and the deposit guarantees that the car will be sold to them and not to anyone else.
At first glance, everything in this story seems logical. Believing the seller, the buyer transfers the deposit to the "seller's" card, and then the seller disappears from the "radar": the number becomes blocked, and all correspondence is deleted. Retrieving money in such a situation is nearly impossible, as the fraudsters register phone numbers and cards under third parties' names.
This story had "red flags" from the very beginning that should raise suspicion in any transaction.
The price is significantly lower than market value, yet the quality of the product is very good.
Typically, any seller aims to earn more money for a good product. Selling something at a very low price, except for some rare situations, is pointless.
You are told that there are several interested buyers or that for some reason, you need to make a purchasing decision right now without hesitation.
Rushed decisions and artificial hype deprive potential victims of the ability to think rationally. In such conditions, a person may overlook suspicious details and forgo fact-checking.
You are asked to transfer a deposit even before you have seen the product.
Fraudsters claim that you cannot see the product right now, as it is located in another city or its owner is very ill and cannot meet with buyers.
How to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Fraud
First, before making a significant purchase, thoroughly research the market. This way, you will know the average price level for the product you are interested in and will immediately notice discrepancies between price and quality in fraudsters' advertisements.
Second, never make large purchases without weighing all the pros and cons. If you are being rushed, it is better to decline the deal. There is a risk that someone is trying to deceive you or sell you a substandard product.
Third, never transfer money for a product before inspecting it in person. Do not trust photographs and videos, even if they are made "specially for you." Remember that scammers can forge media files and often send photos of "identification documents" to convince potential victims of their honesty.
By following these simple guidelines, you will save your money and peace of mind, making online shopping safe for you.