Officials in Abu Dhabi have issued a fresh warning regarding a surge in online car sale scams. The Abu Dhabi Judicial department has raised concerns about fraudsters using fake websites and social media platform to lure unsuspecting buyers with enticing deals. These scams not only leave buyers out of pocket but also pose safety risks, as vehicles with undisclosed faults could be sold.

The chief prosecutor in Abu Dhabi , Al Ameri, urged the public to exercise caution and verify the reliability of social media accounts and websites before making any car purchases. He emphasized the importance of confirming the seller’s identity and advised against transferring money until the vehicle ownership is transferred and registered with the appropriate authorities. Recent cases have highlighted the need for vigilance, with buyers discovering discrepancies in advertised warranties and mileage after their purchases. To avoid falling victim to such scams, experts recommend buying used cars from reliable sources, conducting thorough inspections, and verifying service histories before making a purchase.

In one instance, a buyer was awarded a full refund and a canceled sale contract after discovering that the vehicle purchased was not under warranty as advertised. Another buyer successfully invalidated a contract and received a refund due to mileage discrepancies. Experts further advise buyers to inspect brake and accelerator pedals for wear and tear, as excessive wear can indicate higher mileage than displayed.