The rapid growth of online vehicle marketplaces has created new opportunities for cybercriminals targeting car buyers and sellers across Pakistan. Fraudsters are increasingly using social engineering, phishing links, and fake buyer schemes to steal money and personal information.

Whether you are selling a used car, purchasing your next vehicle, or browsing listings online, understanding these threats is essential for staying safe.

Critical Threat Intelligence: Active Car Scams🚨

1. The "Guaranteed Buyer" Advance Fee Fraud

The Trap: Scammers pose as representatives of OLX, PakWheels, or CarAdvisers.

The Lie: They claim a verified buyer is ready with them, but requires a small payment of around five thousand (5k) to activate this premium service and finalize the deal.

The Reality: Once payment is made, the scammer disappears. Legitimate marketplaces never request direct payments to secure a buyer.

2. WhatsApp Hijacking & Off-Platform Chat Scams

The Trap: Users are encouraged to move conversations from the marketplace platform to WhatsApp.

The Lie: Scammers ask you to verify your identity through a link or share a verification code.

The Reality: This is a phishing attempt designed to steal personal information or take control of your WhatsApp account.

3. The Trade-In Phishing Link

The Trap: A buyer offers a vehicle exchange and shares a link to their vehicle listing or inspection report.

The Lie: The link appears legitimate and relevant to the transaction.

The Reality: It redirects to a fake login page designed to steal your account credentials.

Essential Safety Guidelines🛡️

To protect yourself from automotive marketplace fraud:

Never pay advance fees for buyers, registrations, or special services.
Keep all communications on the official marketplace platform.
Avoid clicking links sent through chat apps, SMS, or WhatsApp.
Verify suspicious requests through official customer support channels.
Enable Two-Step Verification on WhatsApp.
Meet buyers and sellers in secure public locations.
Confirm payment clearance with the bank before transferring ownership.

What To Do If You Encounter a Scam

Report the User

Immediately report suspicious accounts to the marketplace's support team.

File a Cybercrime Complaint

Report fraud attempts to the FIA Cyber Crime Wing.

Website: fia.gov.pk

Helpline: 1991

Contact CarAdvisers Support

If suspicious activity involves a CarAdvisers listing, contact our support team immediately:

WhatsApp: +92 312 6890699

Helpline: 051 61211111

Email: support@caradvisers.com

Protect Your Next Vehicle Transaction

Before completing any vehicle deal, use trusted services available on CarAdvisers:

Buy Me a Car

Sell My Car

Car Inspection Services

Auction Sheet Verification

EV Marketplace

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a marketplace representative ask for payment over the phone?

No. Legitimate automotive marketplaces do not request direct bank transfers or mobile wallet payments to secure buyers or process listings.

Should I move a vehicle transaction to WhatsApp?

It is safer to keep communications within the official marketplace platform until trust has been established.

How can I verify a buyer's payment safely?

Always confirm payment clearance directly with the issuing bank before transferring ownership documents or the vehicle.

Final Thoughts

Online vehicle marketplaces provide convenience and access to thousands of buyers and sellers across Pakistan. However, increasing digital activity has also attracted sophisticated fraudsters.

By keeping conversations on-platform, avoiding suspicious links, verifying payments, and using trusted marketplace services, you can significantly reduce your risk and complete transactions with confidence.

Stay Aware. Stay Vigilant. Protect Your Hard-Earned Money.

Have you ever encountered a suspicious buyer or seller while trading vehicles online in Pakistan? Share your experience in the comments.

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