Paying safely

How to pay without getting caught by a scam.

The short answer: Do not pay any money until you have seen the car and its papers in person. Pay by bank transfer into an account in the dealership's name, and confirm the bank details by phoning a number you found yourself. Namibian police have warned about scammers who ask for deposits on cars they do not own.

See it first

Never pay before you have seen the car and its papers.
Be careful of anyone who asks for a deposit to "hold" a car you have not seen.

Pay the business, not a person

Pay by bank transfer (EFT) into an account in the dealership's name.
Phone the dealership on a number you found yourself to confirm the bank details before you pay.
Avoid paying large amounts in cash.

Get it in writing

Ask for an invoice that shows the car's VIN, engine number, price and what is included.
Keep your proof of payment and the invoice together.

Frequently asked questions

The seller wants a deposit to hold the car. Should I pay?

Not before you have seen the car. Namibian police have warned about scammers who advertise cars, ask for a deposit and then disappear. Police advise not paying until you have inspected the car in person.

Is it safe to pay by e-wallet?

Be very careful. Police said one car-scam syndicate asked buyers to pay by e-wallet instead of into a bank account. Pay by bank transfer into an account in the dealership's name.

How do I know the bank details are real?

Phone the dealership on a number you found yourself, not one on the letter or message. If the bank details suddenly change, confirm the change before you pay.

Are cars advertised on Facebook safe to buy?

Police have warned that scammers post photos of cars they do not own on Facebook. Some also used fake papers with a forged police stamp. Police advise buying through registered dealers where possible.

What if the car still has a bank loan on it?

The bank owns the car until the loan is paid in full. If you buy it before then, you could lose both the car and your money. Ask for proof that the loan is paid off.