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Incidents of fake IDs being used for stealing cars on test drives

person test driving car

Last updated on March 19th, 2024 at 02:47 pm

Fraud comes in many forms. Test drive fraud often comes in the form of someone posing as a serious buyer and then stealing a car. This is often done by going to a dealership, asking to test drive a car, presenting the dealership with an ID (most of the time fake, but sometimes real), then taking the car for a test drive and never returning. If you have ever been conned into a situation like this, you might have felt angry or embarrassed at the time, but know you’re not alone. We have linked to several instances of test drive fraud, and will continually update the links below, so give them a read and learn more about how these criminals are committing fraud.

Instances of Test Drive Fraud:

April 18, 2023

Arrest made after scammer tries to buy 2 Maseratis with fake ID

March 12, 2023

Woman leaves fake ID at dealership, steals car during test drive, owner says

February 24, 2023

Pasco man used fraudulent ID in attempt to purchase 2 Mercedes, deputies say

January 11, 2023

Colorado crime ring stole nearly $1 million worth of cars and property, indictment says

December 2, 2022

Police: Woman tries to buy real car with fake ID

September 5, 2022

Woman stole vehicle from CarMax in test drive : BPD

August 29, 2022

SPD: Woman steals test drive vehicle, found with six knives

July 28, 2022:

Man charged after taking car from Green Bay dealership during test drive. 

April 12, 2022

Man arrested over string of alleged test drive vehicle thefts

February 14, 2022

Woman accused of using fake IDs to steal cars from dealerships during test drives

June 29, 2021

Two men accused of stealing car after test drive

September 12, 2017

Cars are being stolen during test drives, Calgary police warn

So as you can see, the stories are endless. Criminals are getting bolder and bolder, but that doesn’t necessarily mean smarter. Many times people will present IDs that look real to the naked eye, but upon inspection with an ID scanner and software combo, these IDs will flag as fake, and your company could be spared tens of thousands of dollars. Contact one of our industry experts to learn more about how your business can prevent test drive fraud.