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Facebook Marketplace has become a hub for buying and selling but is not immune to scams. Recent reports highlight a concerning trend of scammers orchestrating vehicle-related fraud, with one specific case involving a fictitious General Motors SA.
This deceptive operation, led by individuals including Asley Adams, has persisted for years, leaving many victims in its wake.
MODUS OPERANDI:
• These scammers are adept at creating an illusion of legitimacy.
• They provide counterfeit paperwork and employ multiple aliases, like Asley Adams, to pose as representatives of General Motors South Africa.
• General Motors SA is a syndicate and not just one person.
• Their Facebook Marketplace scam has been running since April 2020.
• Asley Adams is an alias and 1 of many names used.
• Mike/Martin and so on are also used regularly.
• Prolonged engagement in such fraudulent activities demonstrates a persistent and organized effort.
• The Brooklyn SAPS has taken notice, with an official case number (611/10/2023) linked to this ongoing deception.
ONLINE PRESENCE AND CONTACT INFORMATION:
• The scammers utilise deceptive links and a Facebook page to mimic an authentic General Motors entity.
• These scammers often contact the victim using the cell phone number +27 63 050 3929.
• This enables the scammers to maintain continuous communication with the victims even after the initial payment has been made.
FAKE FACEBOOK MARKETPLACE SCAM:
DETAILS:
• Contact number: (031)0019222
• Email address: Ashley@generalmotorsgroup.co.za
• Website: http://www.generalmotorsgroup.co.za
• Registration Number:2022/493854/07
• Tax Number: 9123508260
FAKE OFFER TO PURCHASE AGREEMENT:
SAFETY MEASURES TO KEEP IN MIND IN THIS INSTANCE AND IN ALL OTHERS:
• Be Cautious of Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals:
If a vehicle's price seems significantly lower than market value, exercise caution.
Scammers often use tempting prices to lure unsuspecting buyers.
• In-Person Inspection:
Always insist on inspecting the vehicle in person before making any payments.
Refusal to meet in person should raise red flags.
• Verify Seller Identity:
Check the seller's profile and reviews to ensure credibility.
Genuine sellers will have a history of positive interactions.
• Avoid Untraceable Payments:
Gift card payments and wiring money should be avoided. Legitimate transactions involve traceable payment methods to protect buyers.
• Check Vehicle History:
Request the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and run a thorough vehicle history report to confirm the car's status and avoid potential stolen or salvaged vehicles.
• Beware of QR Codes:
Scammers might use QR codes to redirect victims to fake payment pages or websites.
Exercise caution when prompted to use QR codes.
• It is imperative that you arrange to meet the seller at a police station.
• Strictly avoid changing the location at the last minute.
• As a buyer, you must never take cash to make a payment.
• Document everything meticulously, including video calls, screenshots, call recordings, etc.
• Take a knowledgeable and trusted person with you to verify the VIN and registration numbers and ensure they match the previous registration documents.
• Always keep your family or a friend informed about your actions and movements to avoid any potential hijacking or robbery.
• The seller must immediately transfer the money to another account after handing the vehicle and registration papers to the new buyer.
This will prevent the transaction from being reversed once the new buyer has the car in their possession.
Specialised Security Services encourages potential buyers to prioritise safety in their transactions. For those seeking a more secure platform, PrivateAuto is recommended. This platform employs stringent measures, including VIN checks, identity verification, secure transactions, and thorough inspection processes.
In conclusion, while Facebook Marketplace provides a convenient platform for buying and selling, it is crucial to remain vigilant and implement our advice to avoid falling victim to scams.
Staying informed and cautious is the first line of defence against persistent online threats.
Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Group. This group is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.
HOW TO JOIN THE MIKE BOLHUIS DAILY PROJECTS WHATSAPP GROUP:
• Follow the link to our WhatsApp group:
• "JOIN" to ensure you never miss our daily updates.
• You will receive automatic notifications as soon as a new project is posted.
CONTACT MR MIKE BOLHUIS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES, PROTECTION, OR AN INVESTIGATION IF NEEDED.
ALL INFORMATION RECEIVED WILL BE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENTIALITY AND EVERY IDENTITY WILL BE PROTECTED.
Regards,
Mike Bolhuis
Specialist Investigators into
Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes
PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949
Mobile: +27 82 447 6116
E-mail: mike@mikebolhuis.co.za
Fax: 086 585 4924
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EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: All potential clients need to be aware that owing to the nature of our work as specialist investigators there are people who have been caught on the wrong side of the law - who are trying to discredit me - Mike Bolhuis and my organisation Specialised Security Services - to get themselves off the hook. This retaliation happens on social media and creates doubt about our integrity and ability. Doubt created on social media platforms is both unwarranted and untrue. We strongly recommend that you make up your minds concerning me and our organisation only after considering all the factual information - to the exclusion of hearsay and assumptions. Furthermore, you are welcome to address your concerns directly with me should you still be unsatisfied with your conclusions. While the internet provides a lot of valuable information, it is also a platform that distributes a lot of false information. The distribution of false information, fake news, slander and hate speech constitutes a crime that can be prosecuted by law. Your own research discretion and discernment are imperative when choosing what and what not to believe.
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