Jonathan Denis, Calgary Egmont

Our offices have been receiving inquiries about fraudulent Internet vehicle sales advertisements that attempt to defraud unsuspecting consumers.  The advertisements are typically placed on classified advertising or automotive-listing sites.

The seller then directs potential buyers to a phony site designed to resemble a legitimate payment-protection website. No vehicle is ever delivered and the buyers lose their money.

Red flags for consumers include: if the seller is from another region or country and uses a general e-mail account (i.e. Hotmail or Yahoo) or uses a post office box; if the seller requires the use of a payment protection site or a wire service to send money, especially to another country; and if the vehicle is priced well below its actual value.

 Consumers should also be wary of sellers who insist on a quick decision. 

Consumers can learn more about protecting themselves when shopping online by calling the Consumer Contact Centre toll free at 1-877-427-4088. Additional information can be found on the Internet Shopping Tipsheet on the Service Alberta website at www.servicealberta.ca/1020.cfm. 

If you feel that you may have come across of one of these scams, you are also encouraged to contact the Calgary Police Service at 403-266-1234.

As always, please feel free to contact me with your comments at 403-640-1363 or calgary.egmont@assembly.ab.ca

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