Audi Issues Warning About Used Car Fraud

Audi has raised alarms regarding fraudulent used car listings appearing on the internet. The company has reported that deceptive websites and catalogs are being circulated in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, which falsely present themselves as official Audi offerings. These listings feature vehicles priced significantly lower than market value, but the cars do not actually exist, nor do the supposed sales channels behind them.

The main objective of these scammers seems to be to lure customers into making deposits or full payments for vehicles that are never delivered. Audi has stated that several customers have already fallen victim to these scams. In response, the company has filed a criminal complaint and is actively cooperating with law enforcement agencies. Affected individuals are also encouraged to report these incidents to the authorities.

Fraudsters are using fake email addresses, phone numbers, and bank details, and they sometimes even utilize images of actual Audi dealership staff. Audi is not the only automaker facing this issue; earlier in April, Mercedes-Benz issued a similar warning about counterfeit catalogs, purchase agreements, and invoices being distributed under its name. The luxury car manufacturer advised caution, urging potential buyers to refrain from making payments without prior inspection of the vehicle and to consult authorized dealers for verification.

The rise in fraudulent activities is not limited to Audi and Mercedes-Benz; the automotive trade sector has reported an increase in scams targeting various brands. Thomas Peckruhn, Vice President of the German Automotive Trade Association (ZDK) and head of a car dealership group, expressed concerns over counterfeit listings that often target dealerships, particularly for high-demand and luxury vehicles. He noted that even experienced professionals find it challenging to identify these sophisticated forgeries.

As the number of scams grows, both Audi and Mercedes-Benz are taking steps to safeguard their customers and maintain the integrity of their brands. It is essential for consumers to exercise caution when engaging in online transactions for used vehicles, especially when deals appear too good to be true.