AutoMotorShop Safety

Your money and equipment matter. Protect them.

Buying or selling online can be fast and convenient, but it also attracts scammers. This guide teaches you step by step how to spot risks and close deals with more confidence.

See key tips
  • Always verify in person
  • Never pay without seeing the item
  • Report anything suspicious

01

5 golden rules

If you remember only this, you are on the right track.

Look before you pay

Inspect the vehicle or machine in person. Check engine, body, chassis, odometer and that it matches the listing.

Validate papers and ownership

Ask for registration, insurance, technical inspection and verify the seller is the owner or authorized to sell.

Distrust impossible prices

If it is far below market and there is pressure to close fast, it is a classic scam sign. Compare with similar listings.

Do not send advances

Avoid transfers, top-ups or “reservation fees” to strangers. Serious payment happens after you validated everything.

Meet in safe places

Meet during the day, in public places and, if possible, with company. Do not go alone to isolated locations with strangers.

02

Warning signs

If you see one or more of these signs, stop and verify.

  • They ask for money before you see the vehicle or documents.
  • The seller only chats and avoids calls or video calls.
  • They insist on strange payment links, Nequi/Bancolombia to third parties or a “manager”.
  • Generic internet photos or the same ad copied in several cities.
  • Emotional pressure: “today only”, “another buyer is coming”, “last chance”.
  • They ask for bank details, OTP codes or passwords “to verify”.

03

Checklist before paying

Mentally check each point. If one fails, do not close the deal.

  • I saw the vehicle or equipment in person.
  • I compared the price with the market and it makes sense.
  • I reviewed documents and chassis/engine numbers.
  • I confirmed the seller's identity (ID and ownership).
  • The payment method is clear and I kept proof.
  • I did not share codes, passwords or payment links sent by the seller.

04

Common scams

Knowing the scammer's script is the best defense.

The advance payment

They ask for a deposit to “reserve” a vehicle they do not even have. They disappear after receiving the money.

The fake buyer

A “buyer” overpays and asks you to return the difference. The initial payment turns out fake or reversed.

The ghost intermediary

They claim to be company staff, agents or carriers. They keep you away from dealing directly with the real owner.

The cloned listing

They copy photos and description from a legitimate listing with a lower price and different WhatsApp. The real owner never knew.

05

If you are a seller

You can also be a target of theft or fraud.

  • Publish real photos and accurate data: it builds trust and fewer reports.
  • Do not receive visitors in isolated places; prefer busy locations.
  • Verify payment is credited to your account before handing over keys.
  • Distrust buyers who will not see the vehicle and only push for fast payment.

Did you see something suspicious?

On each listing you can report fraud, fake price or inappropriate behavior. Your report helps protect the whole community.

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