Escalating auction scams a cause for concern

Park Village Auctions (PVA) is sounding the alarm on the rising tide of sophisticated auction scams targeting unsuspecting buyers.

These fraudulent schemes, which have plagued the industry for years, are becoming increasingly elaborate and difficult to detect.

“We’re seeing an alarming escalation in auction-related fraud,” said Clive Lazarus of PVA.

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“Scammers are employing advanced social engineering tactics to prey on vulnerable individuals, often those desperately seeking affordable vehicles.”

Lazarus emphasises, “It’s crucial to understand that ‘auction’ is the operative word here. Legitimate auctions don’t have pre-sales or reserves.

“The only payment required upfront is a refundable deposit to participate in the auction itself.

“This is precisely where people must be extremely vigilant and take all necessary measures to ensure they’re dealing with the real auction house.”

Key features of these scams include:

• Fake social media advertisements, particularly on Facebook and Instagram

• Fraudulent websites mimicking legitimate auction houses

• High-pressure tactics to push for upfront payments

• Elaborate backstories and impersonation of auction house staff

• False promises of employment to recruit unwitting accomplices

• Deceptive claims of “pre-auction” sales or guaranteed reserves

“The sophistication of these operations is truly concerning,” Lazarus said.

“Scammers are now tailoring their approach to match the demographic profile of their targets, making their schemes even more convincing.

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“We’ve even seen cases where fraudsters are ’employing’ victims, promising full-time positions once they’ve sold a certain number of cars. These fake job offers are just another way to lure people into their scams.”

PVA urges the public to exercise extreme caution and offers the following advice:

• Always insist on inspecting vehicles in person before engaging with any auction house.

• Be wary of auctions advertised primarily through social media.

• Report and block suspicious profiles on social platforms.

• Verify the legitimacy of auction houses through official channels.

• Never feel pressured into making hasty payments or decisions.

• Remember that legitimate auctions only require a refundable deposit for participation.

• Be sceptical of unsolicited job offers related to selling auction vehicles.

“Education and public awareness are our best defences,” Lazarus said.

“We’re committed to aggressively pursuing takedown notices for fraudulent websites to combat these crimes.”

PVA encourages anyone who encounters suspicious auction activity to report it immediately.

The company also reminds the public that legitimate auctions follow strict protocols and never pressure buyers into quick decisions or upfront payments without proper verification.

For more information on protecting yourself from auction fraud, visit PVA’s official website at www.parkvillageauctions.co.za.