How TikTok is Fueling a Dangerous Rise in Car Auction Scams Across South Africa

Fake WesBank accounts, slick videos, and deals too good to be true are costing locals thousands

TikTok is no longer just a place for dance trends and viral recipes—it’s now also the newest hunting ground for car scammers in South Africa. And they’re not just any scammers. These fraudsters are using the trusted name of WesBank to create a convincing illusion of legitimacy.

Over the past few weeks, a worrying number of South African car buyers have reported being duped by fake online auctions, primarily on TikTok, where so-called “bank repossessed” vehicles are being advertised at jaw-droppingly low prices.

The Scam: Repossessed Dreams That Never Arrive

Picture this: you’re scrolling through TikTok and see a slick video advertising a 2022 VW Polo Vivo for R65,000. The profile features WesBank branding, professional graphics, and comments filled with “happy buyers.” Tempting, right?

Except it’s all fake.

According to WesBank’s Head of Marketing and Communications, Lebo Gaoaketse, scammers are creating fraudulent accounts using WesBank’s logos and names to pose as official auction representatives. They offer “exclusive access” to vehicles, sometimes even claiming you’ve won a bid—provided you transfer money immediately to “secure” the car.

Once the money clears, the account vanishes. No car, no refund, no way to trace them.

Social Media Buzz: ‘Scammed by a TikTok Car Deal’

South Africans have taken to TikTok and Facebook to share their horror stories. One user said, “They had a whole live stream showing cars on a lot. Looked legit. I paid R20K and never heard from them again.”

Another user commented, “I thought I was clever. Verified the plate, saw a WesBank sticker… turns out it was all staged.”

These posts are now flooded with warnings, but it’s clear many only learn the lesson once it’s too late.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

WesBank has published a list of warning signs every car buyer should know before participating in any online auction:

• Payment requests outside of verified auction platforms.

• Pushy sellers rushing you to secure a “great deal.”

• Vague details or dodgy photos of vehicles.

• No physical address or landline number provided.

As Gaoaketse bluntly puts it: “If someone asks you for a deposit to ‘hold’ a car outside of the official process, walk away. That’s not how we do business.”

How Real Auctions Work: What You Need to Know

Real WesBank auctions follow a strict protocol:

• Registration is required before you can place a bid.

• A refundable deposit may be needed to participate, not to “secure” a specific car.

• All transactions are handled through verified platforms and registered auctioneers.

Understanding auction terms and reading the fine print helps spot the fakes early. WesBank urges buyers to deal only with reputable auction houses and authorised staff, never a random person on social media.

South Africans’ Love for Bargains Is Being Exploited

There’s a deeper reason these scams are landing so well: the cost-of-living crisis. With inflation high and new car prices out of reach for many, the idea of getting a well-priced bank repo car is deeply appealing. Scammers know this and they’re weaponising that hope.

In the words of one TikTok user who almost got duped: “I was just trying to save for my family. Turns out, I almost lost everything instead.”

When in Doubt, Don’t Pay a Cent

South Africans are encouraged to report any suspicious auction activity immediately, whether on TikTok, Facebook Marketplace, or WhatsApp. The more eyes on these scams, the fewer victims.

In the digital age, a too-good-to-be-true deal can cost you more than just money, it can cost you your peace of mind. If in doubt, step back and do your homework. Or better yet, call the bank directly.

Because the only thing worse than a stolen car… is a car that never even existed.

{Source: BusinessTech}

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