(LANSING) - Authorities are investigating multiple automobile fraud cases.
The Michigan State Police Southwest Commercial Recovery Team is looking into several fraud cases that involve suspects from the Chicago area, who are targeting dealerships along with private sellers around Michigan.
One of the more common schemes investigators have seen is scammers purchase trailers and sometimes vehicles as well, using what seems to be legitimate cashier's checks. It's later determined that the checks are fraudulent, and the items are taken from Michigan, which makes it difficult for the victims to get their vehicles back.
In another instance, the suspects are arranging the purchase of vehicles through an online platform, like Facebook Marketplace. The deals are many times finalized in parking lots. It has been determined that some of the vehicles involved have a VIN number of a real vehicle, but it's been placed on a vehicle that has been stolen.
Michigan State Police are encouraging private sellers and dealerships to stay aware of these types of scams.
Authorities says sellers should always verify payment methods thoroughly rather than just trusting appearances. If possible you should also complete transactions inside a financial institution. Additionally, be cautious of out-of-state buyers or deals that feel hurried, carefully checking VINs against official records, and walking away if a deal seems too good to be true or wrong.
Anyone who thinks they have encountered these scams or has related information is encouraged to contact their local law enforcement agency immediately.