Police say caution vital when selling cars online

A recent auto theft is leading Regina police to advise caution for those selling vehicles online.

On April 12, a male suspect contacted the owner of a vehicle who had advertised online. The prospective buyer arrived, and after discussing details with the owner, entered the driver’s seat and requested a test drive. After handing over the keys, the owner began to walk around the front of the vehicle to access the passenger’s side, but the driver drove off with the vehicle, almost striking the owner while doing so.

Police caution that criminals can falsely identify themselves during online interactions, and do search for used vehicle sales through online classifieds in order to attempt to drive away with the vehicle or to rob the other person.

Police advise that when buying and selling with a stranger, arrange to speak over the phone ahead of the meet up to determine if they seem suspicious. If they do seem suspicious, remember that you are not required to carry out the transaction. If you are meeting someone you don’t know, do so in a public place, ideally one with video surveillance. If possible, have another person with you, and always inform a family member or friend before meeting with people you don’t know. As an added precaution, take down their licence plate number when they arrive at the meeting point.

While the vehicle in this particular incident has been recovered, no charges have been laid.