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Fake ads: How scammers fool car buyers

July 21, 2026
Blogs

Not every vehicle advertised online is sold by an OMVIC registered salesperson or dealership it claims to be. 

Scammers regularly copy legitimate dealership listings, steal salesperson identities, and create convincing ads designed to collect deposits or full payments from unsuspecting buyers. If you’re unfamiliar with Ontario’s vehicle-buying process, these scams can be especially difficult to spot. 

How the scam works

Most scams occur through online platforms such as Facebook Marketplace. Once you’ve contacted the seller, the pressure begins. 

The seller may tell you there are several interested buyers and encourage you to send a deposit or full payment immediately to reserve the vehicle. Their messages often sound professional, and they may answer questions confidently to gain trust. 

After the money is sent, communication stops. 

In many cases, buyers later discover the dealership never listed the vehicle for sale, the salesperson they were speaking with doesn’t work there, or the contact information in the advertisement had been changed to redirect buyers to the scammer. 

Why it works

These scams are designed to look legitimate. 

Scammers can easily copy dealership photos, logos, vehicle descriptions, and even the identities of real salespeople. Some also communicate in a buyer’s preferred language or create a false sense of urgency to discourage them from taking the time to verify the seller. 

Their objective is to get you to send money before confirming who you’re dealing with. 

Red flags to watch for

Be cautious if: 

  • The vehicle is priced well below similar listings. 
  • You’re pressured to send a deposit right away. 
  • The seller communicates only through social media or messaging apps. 
  • They refuse to meet at the dealership they claim to represent. 
  • The phone number or email in the advertisement doesn’t match the dealership’s official website. 
  • The seller avoids answering questions or providing additional information. 
  • You’re told you’ll lose the vehicle unless you act immediately. 

If something doesn’t feel right, pause the transaction and verify the seller before moving forward. 

Verify before you pay

Before sending a deposit or personal information: 

  • Contact the dealership directly using the phone number or email listed on its official website. 
  • Ask the dealership to confirm that the vehicle is available for sale. 
  • Never rely solely on information in an online advertisement or social media profile. Verify the seller, review the vehicle’s history, and inspect the vehicle before you send any money. 

Spending a few minutes verifying the seller could save you thousands of dollars. When you buy from an OMVIC registered dealer, you’re protected under Ontario law, and OMVIC may be able to assist if there’s a problem with the purchase. 

Remember: The safest vehicle purchase starts with knowing exactly who you’re dealing with. Look twice. Buy smart.