We’re urging all dealers to stay alert.
In recent weeks, ITC Compliance Network’s finance lenders have bought to our attention that organised criminal groups have been targeting the motor trade with increasingly sophisticated scams, and even experienced dealers are being caught out.
How the scam works:
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Someone contacts you claiming to have a customer ready for finance
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They promise quick payment, commission, or even a share of profit
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They say you don’t need to handle the car, they’ll “take care of it”
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They send handover photos, customer details, even vehicle images, all of which are AI-generated or fake!
Everything looks genuine. But it isn’t.
Protect your business:
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Don’t trust unsolicited approaches offering “ready to go” finance deals or customers
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Always ensure you hold full legal title to any vehicle before finance is activated
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Wherever possible, keep the car on site and inspect it personally
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Retain the original V5 logbook before releasing the vehicle
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Know your customer - ideally meet them in person
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If selling remotely, tell your lender so extra checks can be done
If something doesn’t feel right – stop immediately.
Speak to your finance provider before you release any car or funds.
We’re all part of the same network. The more we share information, the harder it becomes for scammers to operate! If you’ve been approached or you’re unsure about a deal, contact your finance lender representative straight away.
Together, we can keep the industry safe and stamp this out.