ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – The Orange County Sheriff’s Office is warning Central Florida residents about a recent scam trend involving stolen cars and fake VINs.
In a release on Wednesday, deputies said that criminals have been stealing vehicles and replacing the real VINs (Vehicle Identification Numbers) with fake ones.
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From there, these scammers then sell the stolen vehicle to an unsuspecting buyer, deputies added.
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“If you’re shopping for a used vehicle, don’t get scammed,” the release reads. “Check the VIN and vehicle history prior to making a purchase.”
As a result of the recent crime trend, the sheriff’s office is providing the following tips to avoid getting scammed:
- Verify the VIN with law enforcement, Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, or a trusted database.
- Buy from a reputable dealership or private seller with clear documentation.
- Check for signs of tampering with the VIN plate and door stickers.
- Review the mileage and damage history of the vehicle.
- Check the title history of the vehicle for any discrepancies.
- Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
- Beware of vehicles being sold for substantially less than comparable make and model vehicles.
Anyone who suspects a vehicle of having a fraudulent VIN is asked to report it to the sheriff’s office immediately.