How to Vet Potential Buyers & Avoid Common Scams
You ever list your car online and wonder
“Who’s this random bloke asking if I’ll ship it to Nigeria”
“Why is someone offering full price without even seeing it”
“Am I about to get scammed here”
Yeah
I’ve had those thoughts too
And over the years I’ve learned exactly how to vet potential buyers & avoid common scams
I’m Myriam
I paint faces by day
And have dodged more dodgy buyers than I can count
Here’s how you can too
Why Bother Vetting Buyers?
Because not everyone who messages you is serious
Some are dreamers
Some are time wasters
And some — well — are out to rip you off
If you know how to spot the signs
You’ll save yourself stress and wasted weekends
How to Vet Potential Buyers & Avoid Common Scams Step by Step
Here’s my process
Works every time
Step 1: Pay Attention To How They Contact You
✅ Serious buyers usually call or send a clear message about the car
✅ Scammers send vague stuff like
“Is the item still available”
Or
“I’ll send someone to pick it up just send your bank details”
If they don’t mention the car or your name — red flag
If they’re pushy about paying you before seeing it — big red flag
Step 2: Check Their Profile Or Number
On Facebook Marketplace
✅ See if their profile is real — proper name photos friends
✅ If it was created yesterday and has no history — no thanks
If they call or text
✅ Look up the number
✅ Scammers often use weird area codes or hidden numbers
Step 3: Meet In A Safe Place
Never invite strangers to your house unless you’re sure
✅ Meet in a public car park during the day
✅ Bring a mate if you can
✅ If they insist on meeting at night or somewhere dodgy — walk away
Pro tip:
Some police stations even have “safe transaction zones” you can use
Step 4: Watch Out For Overpayment Scams
If someone sends you more money than agreed
And asks you to refund the difference — run
That’s classic scam behaviour
The original payment usually bounces after you’ve sent your own money
Step 5: Be Wary Of Fake Payment Proof
Some buyers flash fake bank transfer receipts
Or show you a PayPal “confirmation” that never clears
✅ Always log into your own account to check the money’s there
✅ Don’t hand over keys until funds have cleared
✅ Cash is still king if you count it carefully
Step 6: Trust Your Gut
If something feels off
It probably is
You’re allowed to say no
You don’t owe anyone a sale
My Story With A Dodgy Buyer
Once listed my old Fiesta
Got a message offering full price if I “just ship it” to their brother abroad
They even sent a fake PayPal email
Looked real — but when I checked my account nothing was there
Blocked them
Relisted
Sold to a proper buyer a week later
Quick Tips To Stay Safe
☑ Never share personal bank details or ID
☑ Don’t let buyers test drive alone — ride with them and keep the keys until you swap seats
☑ Only accept cleared funds before handing over the car
☑ If it sounds too good to be true — it usually is
☑ Be polite but firm — you’re in control
FAQs About How to Vet Potential Buyers & Avoid Common Scams
Should I accept a bank transfer?
Yes — but only once it’s cleared in your account
Is cash safer?
Usually yes — but count it before handing over the keys
Can I refuse to sell if I feel uncomfortable?
Absolutely — it’s your car your choice
What if someone wants me to ship the car?
Only do this if you’re 100% sure of payment and who they are — but honestly it’s better to avoid
Should I keep a record of the buyer?
Yes — name address and phone number for your records
Final Word On How to Vet Potential Buyers & Avoid Common Scams
If you follow this guide on how to vet potential buyers & avoid common scams
You’ll save yourself a load of hassle
You’ll spot the time wasters and scammers fast
And you’ll sell your car safely and confidently
Don’t rush
Don’t be afraid to say no
And keep your wits about you
