Avoid fake vehicle report requests

A seller or buyer may be pushed toward a report website that looks convincing but gives little evidence of what it checks.

Pause before paying

• Check the exact website address and who operates it.
• Read which registers and fields the report covers, plus refund terms.
• Be wary of pressure to use one unfamiliar site or to pay before basic details can be verified.
• Compare the VIN on the car, paperwork and any certificate.

Use a known starting point

The official PPSR vehicle search currently costs $2 online and uses a VIN or chassis number. It can show registered security interests and available stolen or written-off information. Search close to the time you buy and keep the certificate.

If something looks wrong

Do not hand over money until you have verified the vehicle and seller. For a stolen flag, contact state or territory police. For a written-off or registration discrepancy, contact the relevant road authority. If you have already paid a suspicious website, contact your payment provider.