‘Ruthless’ Gangs Are Targeting Victims With Fake Car Ads

Gangs described as ‘ruthless’ and ‘devious’ are targeting their victims with fake car advertisements. Using popular websites like eBay, they seem to be operating in the North West…

Fake Car Ads 

Criminals are targeting car buyers throughout the North West. Described as ‘ruthless’ and ‘devious’, they lure their victims into a trap with fake car ads. Often hosted on the likes of eBay, they resemble legitimate car advertisements; often simply copied and pasted, with changed contact details. Once the victims arrive at the meeting location, they’re threatened with weapons included guns and machetes. According to one report, a would-be buyer was forced to hand over money by two men after they placed a gun at his girlfriend’s head. They were able to leave with a substantial amount of cash. Another victim had a car jack thrown through his car window. He was, however, able to flee the scene unharmed.

Detective Sergeant Kat McKeown, of Greater Manchester Police, stressed the lack of compassion amongst the gangs. She said, “these offenders are targeting innocent members of the public via the internet and have no compassion at all for their victims who they have subjected to a number of terrifying ordeals”. She added, ”they are devious and ruthless and need to be caught. For this reason, we have a dedicated team of detectives working around the clock to identify those responsible”. Police are currently investigating 10 incidents that have taken place between the 19th of November and 22nd of January. They’re warning car buyers to be vigilant.

Spotting A Fake 

A spokesman for eBay has told the BBC “we have suspended a number of accounts and continue to cooperate with the authorities while the investigation is ongoing”. Unfortunately, it’s extremely difficult for websites like eBay to determine which ads are fake or uploaded by criminals. On the surface, there’s little that might give them away. A few sure signs might be a lack of personal details on behalf of the seller. A generic and impersonal email or a withheld phone number should immediately raise suspicions. In addition, you should never leave to view a car after dark and certainly not in a secluded area. Always ask to view it during daylight and in a public area. However, if worst comes to worst, never attempt to protect your money or belongings; they can be replaced, but you and your loved ones can’t.

For now it appears that these gangs are limited to the North West; most reports have come from Manchester and Oldham. Let’s hope the tendency doesn’t spread and that the police are able to identify the perpetrators.

Just 1 In 10 Stolen Cars Are Recovered As Thefts Soar – https://autoserve.co.uk/motoring-news/stolen-cars-soaring-crime/

Steering Lock Sales Have DOUBLED In Light Of Keyless Thefts – https://autoserveclub.co.uk/blog/steering-lock-sales-have-doubled-in-light-of-keyless-thefts/

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