With the festive season approaching, many South Africans are using bonuses and 13th cheques to shop for vehicles. Online and in-person auctions offering repossessed or pre-owned cars at competitive prices are especially appealing during this time.
However, increased buyer activity also attracts fraudsters. In late 2024, almost 70% of South Africans were targeted by fraud, with victims typically losing more than R12,500. Digital banking fraud surged by 86 percent , costing the industry R1.888 billion , and vehicle auction scams are becoming a major contributor.
“Vehicle auctions can provide excellent opportunities for South Africans to access quality vehicles at competitive prices. However, it is important to be vigilant. Understanding the common tactics used by scammers is your first line of defence,” says Lebogang Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communications at WesBank.
Scammers use highly convincing tricks to make fake auctions look legitimate. Here are the most common warning signs:
Unrealistic prices

Scammers often list vehicles far below market value to lure buyers. A Hilux worth R350,000 may be listed at R180,000 or a VW Polo valued at R250,000 may be advertised for R120,000. Fake websites often use copied branding, professional designs and fabricated reviews to appear legitimate.
High pressure tactics
Fraudsters create false urgency by claiming an auction is closing or that other buyers are competing. This pressure pushes consumers into making rushed decisions.
Requests for large upfront deposits
Scammers may ask for deposits to reserve or remove a vehicle from auction. Some even use banking details that appear linked to reputable institutions. Gaoaketse advises, “Before paying any deposit, consumers should verify that the auction house is registered with the South African Institute of Auctioneers and has verifiable