Safety tips

If you're buying

• Meet in a busy, public place, in daylight, and bring a friend if you can.
• See the car in person and take it for a test drive before you pay anything.
• Check the title and paperwork. The seller's name should match the name on the title.
• Look up the car's history report using its VIN, and consider a mechanic's inspection.
• Never send a deposit, gift cards, wire transfers or crypto to someone you haven't met.
• Be wary of prices far below market value, or sellers who can't meet in person.

If you're selling

• Only accept payment you can verify, like cash counted at a bank or a bank-confirmed transfer.
• Be careful with cheques and payment apps. Wait until the money is really in your account.
• Don't share personal details you don't need to, like your home address, before meeting.
• Keep your conversation in Lotline messages so there is a record.
• Complete the title transfer paperwork properly, and keep a copy of the bill of sale.

Something feels off?

Trust your gut and walk away. If you see a suspicious listing or user, please tell us so we can look into it.