ROCK SPRINGS — The Wyoming Department of Transportation is warning residents about potential vehicle and trailer purchasing scams online.

Investigators from WYDOT’s Motor Vehicle Service and Compliance Investigation Division have seen an increase in fraudulent websites posing as Wyoming dealers, auctioneers and businesses. WYDOT said cloning a legitimate website to lure unsuspecting buyers is a common scam tactic in a bid to steal personal information.

These websites may match the graphical design of a legitimate website, but the web address and other key details will not. The scams also involve deals that sound too good to be true. However, once the money is wired, it’s often too late for the scam’s victim. Many of these websites are hosted outside of the U.S., which makes things difficult for law enforcement and WYDOT to have the pages removed.

“Buying online is convenient, but carries risks for fraud and scams,” Shannon Ferree, Investigation Supervisor with WYDOT Compliance and Investigation said. “The auction closes, you think you just got a great deal on a car, and then the money is gone, and the car doesn’t even exist.”

WYDOT offers some tips for people buying online:

• Don’t assume the top result on your search engine is the most legitimate option. Check URLs carefully to find official business websites. You can also verify registered dealers on WYDOT’s website.
• Once money is wired, it’s almost impossible to get back. Opt for other payment methods whenever feasible.
• If possible, have someone you trust view the item in person if you are unable to do so, especially before money changes hands.

Residents who believe they’ve been the victim of a scam can contact WYDOT Compliance or the Wyoming Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.