Buying a car online can be convenient - but it can also put you at risk. Police departments across parts of Pennsylvania are seeing an uptick of cases in which criminals are using channels like Facebook Marketplace to sell stolen vehicles, often with counterfeit titles or falsified paperwork. At least one investigator reported that of the vehicles recovered, almost none of them exhibit signs of tampering or damage. Be cautious and help protect yourself:

1. Verify Vehicle History: Always check the vehicle identification number (VIN) and run a full vehicle history report.

2. Avoid Cash-Only Transactions: Use traceable payment methods and meet sellers in safe, public locations.

3. Inspect Carefully: Look for signs of tampering and never buy a car without confirming its ownership and documentation.

And always remember - if something doesn't seem right, trust your instincts. Stay alert, stay safe, and don’t let a quick deal turn into a costly mistake.