Bucks County Resident Out $45,000 in Car Listing Scam

In an elaborate scam, thieves stole $45,000 from a Bucks County resident through a fake CARFAX car listing. The fraud, which targeted multiple buyers, happened in May 2025.

When Adrianna Parsons was shopping for a Lexus GX 570, she spotted what seemed like a good deal from Specialty Auto in Nebraska. The scammers had stolen the identity of Jim Woods, a legitimate Lincoln dealer who never sold cars online.

After the money transfer went through with no SUV delivered, Central Bucks Regional Police began investigating. The fake website disappeared as soon as the money reached the scammers' account.

The scammers used a technique called "cloning" - copying legitimate listings but changing contact information to trap unsuspecting buyers. In a related scam, another victim lost $18,000 trying to buy the same model through the fake listing.

To gain trust, the scammers sent Ms. Parsons video evidence of the SUV. She called the loss "devastating," according to 6abc.com.

In a statement to 6abc.com, CARFAX said it works to take down fraudulent listings when discovered.

Safety experts recommend using escrow services for sight-unseen purchases. This protects money until buyers receive their vehicles.

Car scams have become sophisticated and deceptive. The scammers create professional websites and build trust through regular communication. Buyer beware!