Texarkana Police Warn of Buying Vehicles on Facebook, Here’s What to Look For

Texarkana Police want to spread the word that if you buy a vehicle off of Facebook or any other social media, there is a big scam going on that you need to be aware of.

This scam is taking place across the country, and at least two cases have now taken place here in Texarkana. It all has to do with stolen cars and switching VIN's (Vehicle Identification Number).

The Biggest Signs a Car Deal is a Scam in Texarkana

One of the biggest signs is if the deal is too good to be true. We hear that a lot with scams. The scammers are trying to 'fish you in' with either your trusting nature, your greed of finding a great deal or your desperation and need for a vehicle. Anyway you look at it, you should trust your gut and be careful.

Texarkana Texas Police posted on Facebook these red flags to watch out for,

• Seller won’t meet at the tax office.
• Wants to meet in a random parking lot.
• Asks for cash only.
• Won’t give you the VIN or registration info.

To protect yourself, you should ask for the vehicle's VIN and then do a quick check online to see what the report says. You can also run a title check. Make sure everything matches up with the vehicle you are buying. You can find the VIN either on the driver's side windshield, inside the driver's side door jam, or on the dashboard on the driver's side.

If you decide to buy the vehicle from an individual and the VIN number checks out,  then before you give them any money, ask them to meet you at the County Tax Office to transfer the title. If it's a scam, they won't show because they don't have a title to the car!

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Remember, scammers are counting on at least one of three things. They want you to be either a trusting soul, wanting to find a great deal and or desperate for transportation. Don't let them get away with it.