Police say the scam starts with scammers advertising vehicles for sale online. When the victim meets with the purported seller to purchase the vehicle, they may be given a post-sale bill, but no used vehicle information package (UVIP). The vehicle is being sold “as is” and the buyer is advised that they will need to have a safety check by a mechanic before registering the vehicle with the Ministry of Transport (MTO). Once the victim’s safety inspection is complete – and he pays for the required repairs – he visits the MTO to get license plates and a license. At this point, the buyer discovers that the vehicle is stolen. In one case, police said a Kitchener resident lost $6,500 to the scam after arranging to buy a vehicle from a seller in the greater Toronto area. Police have provided these tips to help would-be buyers protect themselves:
Check your Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) carefully. In Ontario, sellers must legally provide this package to a buyer when selling a used vehicle. Ask the seller to provide valid personal ID and compare it to the property – they should match. Request a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) check and ask to take the car in for an independent inspection. Beware of sellers who want to close the sale as quickly as possible. Take time to think about the purchase, ask questions and consult a professional.
