My husband and I sold a car last week. Even though I loved my 2006 SUV, it was time.
Unbeknownst to me, it would become an education on how insidious the internet is.
Right out of the gate, a guy named Dave wanted to buy it for the asking price and to view it ASAP.
He said he would take a night shift off work, but could I first do a VA report for him?
“What is that?” I asked.
It’s a vehicle activity report, which he needed because he’d previously been shafted buying a car. We thought the request seemed strange.
A quick search revealed the VA link is a scam to get your VIN number, your credit card details and $50. You get a bogus VA report in return, and surprise, Dave disappears.
Dave wasn’t the only buyer who wanted a vehicle activity report.
My phone was flooded with inquiries requesting phoney VAs. Thankfully, a lovely UBC student bought the car.
As I sit writing this column, I got a text, supposedly, from Canada Post. Oh no, my package has arrived at the warehouse but could not be delivered. They need my address and my Visa number.
I didn’t bite, but a friend recently did. Thankfully, she caught on in time and cancelled her credit card.
The scams are exhausting, and oh so clever. From Amazon account problems to Canada Border Services, I’m inundated daily with scammers calls and texts.
Dave was a reality check as I was convinced that taking a day off work meant he was a serious buyer, but he was actually a cowardly scam artist preying on vulnerable people.
Be diligent. There are lots of friendly Daves out there looking to get inside your head, and your wallet. Educate yourself and check the source. It’s your best defence.
Editor’s note: Ingrid Abbott is a writer who is very rude when she answers the phone if the number doesn’t look familiar.
