Words: AutoTrader NZ
Published 13 March 2026
Selling a car online is convenient and effective, but unfortunately it can also attract scammers. Fraudsters often target vehicle listings on online marketplaces, using convincing stories and unusual payment methods to try and trick sellers.
The good news is that many scams follow the same patterns. Knowing what to look for can help you avoid them and keep your sale safe.
Here are five pro tips to help you spot scammer contact when selling a vehicle online.
1. Be Wary of Overseas Buyers
One of the most common warning signs is someone claiming to be based overseas but wanting to buy your car immediately.
You might hear something like:
- They’re working offshore or on an oil rig
- They’re buying the car for a relative
- They want the vehicle shipped overseas
These stories are designed to explain why they can’t view the vehicle in person.
👉🏼 Top tip: Most genuine buyers will want to see or test-drive a car before purchasing.
2. Watch Out for Suspicious Text Messages
Scammers often make first contact via text message and ask you to email them instead of continuing the conversation through the platform.
Some warning signs include:
- Messages sent from international numbers
- Numbers beginning with codes like +44 (UK), +01 (US), +234 (Nigeria)
- Messages from unusual sender names instead of phone numbers
- Generic messages sent to many sellers
Even if the number appears to be a local NZ mobile number, always be cautious if the message feels generic or scripted.
3. Check Suspicious Email Addresses
Scammers frequently use free email services and may create new accounts regularly.
If you receive an email that seems suspicious:
- Search the email address online
- Look for reports of scams linked to that address
- Check whether the message contains generic wording
Fraudsters often reuse the same scripts across multiple listings.
4. Be Skeptical of Elaborate Backstories
Many scammers create detailed personal stories to build trust.
Common examples include:
- Oil rig workers who cannot make phone calls
- Military personnel stationed overseas
- Scientists or engineers working offshore
- Someone buying a car as a gift for a family member
These stories often explain why the buyer can’t meet in person and wants to arrange shipping instead.
While the stories may sound convincing, they’re often used repeatedly across scam attempts.
5. Be Careful With Buyers Who Don’t Want to View the Car
Buying a vehicle without seeing it is rare.
Most genuine buyers will want to:
- Inspect the vehicle
- Test drive it
- Bring a friend or mechanic to check it
If someone is happy to purchase immediately without seeing the car, it’s worth asking more questions.
Watch Out for Freight Forwarding Scams
One of the most common scams targeting vehicle sellers is the freight forwarding scam.
In this scam, a fake buyer offers to purchase your vehicle and claims they will organise a transport company to collect it. They may send fake payment confirmations or screenshots to make it look like they’ve paid you.
The catch? The “transport company” doesn’t exist.
The scammer will ask you to pay the shipping fee upfront, promising you’ll be reimbursed from the payment they supposedly sent. Since the payment was never real, the seller ends up losing money.
👉🏼 Learn more about how this scam works and how to avoid it in our guide:
How to Protect Yourself When Selling a Car
To stay safe when selling your vehicle:
- Communicate through trusted platforms when possible
- Be cautious of unusual payment methods
- Avoid shipping vehicles overseas for unknown buyers
- Trust your instincts if something feels off
Scammers rely on pressure and urgency. Taking a moment to verify details can prevent costly mistakes.
Bottom Line
Most car buyers are genuine, but scammers often follow predictable patterns. By staying alert to suspicious messages, unusual payment requests, and unrealistic stories, you can protect yourself while selling your vehicle online.
👉🏼 When in doubt, take your time and verify the buyer before proceeding.
