SASKATOON – Why would a stranger, who lives in a different country, want to sell a $30,000 vehicle for $20,000? It’s easy, they wouldn’t.
The internet has been a great tool for the automotive enthusiast whether it’s for finding a dream chariot or just talking to someone who has a great interest or knowledge about them.
Yet many Saskatchewan residents are still getting ‘ripped-off’ on that dream car purchase.
The internet has opened the door for thieves and fraudsters to take advantage of excited buyers about that certain great find.
Fraud investigators are cautioning buyers about impulse decisions when they stumble upon a great online deal for a rare or valued vehicle.
There are some important things to keep in mind when making an on-line vehicle purchase.
There are no ‘ten commandments’ on how to purchase a vehicle online, but if a proper strategy could be summarized, it would be research. This can dramatically lessen the risk when buying a vehicle electronically.
It is difficult enough to extradite suspected murderers from other countries so once someone has been victimized by internet fraud, chances are very high that no charges will be laid and no money retrieved.
Buying vehicles locally has its issues, but there are laws and policies in place to deal with these problems.
Maybe one must ask the question, after adding everything up, like transport and import costs, is a local purchase the smarter buy?
Keep in mind that police and lawyers may not be able to help after money has changed hands.
Major on-line auction sites present a lot of information to help protect customers.
Information on importing vehicles to Canada:
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