Buyers Beware: Thieves Are Using Social Media to Sell Stolen Vehicles, Cops Say

Police across the commonwealth are warning consumers looking to purchase vehicles online about an uptick in reports in which thieves are using social media based sites to sell stolen vehicles.

Police departments across  Pennsylvania are seeing an uptick of cases in which criminals are using channels like Facebook Marketplace to sell stolen vehicles, often with counterfeit titles or falsified paperwork, law enforcement officials say.

At least one investigator reported, investigators say, that of the vehicles recovered, almost none of them exhibit signs of tampering or damage.

Be cautious and help protect yourself:

• Verify Vehicle History: Always check the vehicle identification number (VIN) and run a full vehicle history report.
• Avoid Cash-Only Transactions: Use traceable payment methods and meet sellers in safe, public locations.
• Inspect Carefully: Look for signs of tampering and never buy a car without confirming its ownership and documentation.

And always remember, authorities say,  if something doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts. Stay alert, stay safe, and don’t let a quick deal turn into a costly mistake.