‘I’m still numb’: New York man nearly lost Lamborghini and $200,000 in exotic car dealer’s ‘upgrade’ scheme — here’s how he helped foil the scammer

Though theft rates have decreased recently, auto criminals have grown more sophisticated in recent years. From title washing, which involves wiping anything perceived as negative — like salvage status or flood damage — from a used vehicle’s record to VIN cloning, which masks stolen or damaged vehicles with legitimate identification numbers, it’s difficult to know what you’re really buying.

“Criminals are employing increasingly sophisticated methods to steal vehicles, including advanced technology to bypass security systems,” warned NICB CEO David J. Glawe in a 2023 report. “From keyless entry hacks to relay attacks on key fobs, perpetrators exploit vulnerabilities in modern vehicle security measures with alarming success rates.”

How to avoid an auto scam

To protect yourself from fraudulent schemes, prospective buyers and sellers should follow these essential precautions:

• Obtain lender payoff statements: Before handing over your vehicle, try to secure a bank-issued document confirming that any previous loans are fully satisfied.

• Ensure an immediate title transfer: Make sure the seller initiates a legal title transfer in your name at closing; unexplained delays are a major red flag.

• Run a comprehensive history check: A good tip is to use the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System before buying a vehicle you’re interested in.

• Scrutinize online offers: Be wary of below-market prices, vague listings or sellers who resist in-person inspections.

Abatecola’s saga underscores the fact that anyone can fall victim to an auto scam — despite the decline in reported thefts. How you buy a vehicle — and who you buy it from — deserves just as much thought as how you protect and insure your vehicle after you buy it.

By demanding complete documentation and staying vigilant against fraudulent deals, car buyers can keep their dream machines — and their savings — out of the hands of fraudsters.