How to Avoid Scams When Buying Classic Cars Online

The classic car market attracts passionate collectors — and unfortunately, also attracts criminals who exploit that passion. Online scams targeting classic car buyers have grown more sophisticated, with fraudsters creating elaborate fake dealerships, stealing legitimate listings, and running payment schemes that leave buyers with nothing.

The average loss in vehicle purchase scams exceeds €12,000. Many victims are experienced buyers who simply didn't catch the warning signs. Here's how to protect yourself.

Red Flags That Signal Fraud

Pricing Too Good to Be True

A 1967 Porsche 911 for €30,000 when the market says €80,000? That's not a bargain — it's bait. Scammers use unrealistic prices to attract victims quickly before due diligence can occur.

Pressure to Act Fast

"Another buyer is very interested" or "The price goes up tomorrow" are manipulation tactics. Legitimate sellers understand that significant purchases require consideration time.

Reluctance to Meet or Communicate by Phone

Fraudsters prefer text and email where they can carefully craft responses and avoid revealing inconsistencies. If a seller won't take a phone call or video chat, ask yourself why.

Unusual Payment Requests

Wire transfers, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or payments to escrow services you've never heard of are classic scam mechanisms. Once sent, these payments cannot be recovered.

Verification Steps That Work

Verify the Seller's Identity

• Search their phone number, email, and address online
• For dealers, verify business registration and premises via Google Street View
• Check for reviews across multiple platforms
• Ask for ID verification — legitimate sellers understand why

Verify the Vehicle Exists

• Request a current photo with today's newspaper or a handwritten note with date and your name
• Reverse image search listing photos to check if they're stolen from other ads
• Cross-reference the VIN with official databases
• Ask for a video call walk-around of the vehicle

Verify Documentation

• Request registration documents and compare VINs
• Check service history documentation
• For import vehicles, verify customs clearance paperwork
• Consider a professional history check service

Safe Payment Practices

• Never pay the full amount before seeing the car — or having it inspected by a trusted party
• Use traceable payment methods — credit cards offer fraud protection that wire transfers don't
• Be wary of escrow services — scammers create fake escrow websites that look legitimate
• For cash transactions, meet at a bank — where notes can be verified
• Document everything — keep records of all communication and payments

How Finds Protects Buyers

At Finds, buyer protection is built into the platform:

• Seller verification: All sellers complete identity verification before listing
• Payment security: Funds are held securely until transaction completion
• Listing review: Our team reviews listings for accuracy and red flags
• Transparent fees: A clear 5% buyer premium with no hidden charges
• Dispute resolution: Support for buyers if issues arise

What To Do If You've Been Scammed

Act immediately:

1. Contact your bank or payment provider to attempt reversal
2. Report to local police with all documentation
3. File a report with consumer protection agencies
4. Report the listing to the platform where you found it
5. Document everything for potential legal action

Recovery is difficult but not always impossible, especially if you act quickly and the payment method offers protection.

Trust Your Instincts

If something feels wrong, it probably is. Professional sellers welcome verification because it builds trust. Anyone who discourages due diligence is telling you something important about their intentions.

The classic car market offers wonderful opportunities — but only for those who approach it with appropriate caution. Take your time, verify everything, and when in doubt, walk away.