SCAMS ALERT: WATCH OUT FOR ONLINE RV BUYING SCAMS

RV buyers and sellers should take extra care online according to Queensland Police. They have reported an increase in online car sales scams for both buyers and sellers, which may extend to RVs.

Queensland Police Service said “if a website, online marketplace or seller does not participate with a secure payment service such as PayPal or a credit card transaction, or is offering greater discounts for direct deposit, it is most likely a scam.”

To protect yourself and avoid scams:

• Do your research before making the purchase

• Consider whether the offer is realistic – if a deal seems “too good to be true” it probably is

• Never send money via wire or bank transfer

• Do not buy from a seller who won’t meet you in person

• Perform due diligence on your RV such as checking registration papers and viewing it in person

• Check that the location of the RV is real by using Google maps and street view

• Establish phone contact. If the buyer or seller seems to neglect details agreed to via e-mail or is unable to answer questions about their location or the location of the vehicle in question, it is likely to be a scam.

• Beware of people who want to complete the sale too quickly, before you have time to check their credentials

• Take extra steps to verify the identity of someone who says they are buying or selling from overseas

You can learn more about and report scams at www.scamwatch.gov.au.

If you have lost money, notify your bank immediately. Report the matter through the Australian Cyber Security Centre ReportCyber.

You’re in safe hands with RV Boss. We verify that all RVs and caravans for sale on our platform have been posted by genuine, Australian RV dealers and sellers. Please contact us if you’re ever concerned about the legitimacy of a buyer or seller you encounter via RV Boss.

Start safely searching for your next RV or caravan today! Research, sell and buy on RV Boss.