What is StopCarFraud all about?
StopCarFraud’s founders, Billy and Michael, have bought and sold billions ($) in cars since they joined forces over a decade ago. Verifying mechanical or cosmetic condition is not the hardest part of buying or selling cars person-to-person. Not getting ripped off or scammed IS the hardest part. It’s much easier to pass off a car with forged paperwork than it is to earn money honestly. Don’t learn the hard way like we did. We’ve done the hard work and developed a cutting-edge system to protect your a$$ets.
Who does StopCarFraud help?
Buyers, sellers, lenders, dealers, credit unions…basically anyone with a financial interest in a vehicle purchase transaction!
What does StopCarFraud do?
StopCarFraud uses a sophisticated scoring methodology to rate the risk associated with a vehicle purchase transaction. The user has the option of choosing an “expert level” document review and a “pro search” that includes a deeper level of proprietary research.
What do I need to use StopCarFraud?
Basic information from the seller of the vehicle – title or registration and payoff letter, driver’s license, image of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate on the vehicle. We recommend getting all this info prior to meeting to exchange title and car for money, it’s never good to be rushed in a vehicle transaction.
What should I do if the seller will not provide images of the title, vehicle registration and their drivers license?
RUN! The only people that hide something are the ones that have something to hide. If they are afraid to give you the information necessary to properly vet the ownership, vehicle and determine if the title is valid, you might be best served to look for a vehicle elsewhere. We have also found that it’s a good faith demonstration to send the seller your Driver’s License first to let them know you are serious about the purchase. If you are not comfortable doing so, then the person you are dealing with may be cause for concern or you probably shouldn’t be purchasing a car privately.
Is StopCarFraud a for-profit company?
StopCarFraud does act in the public interest but is shareholder owned.
Is StopCarFraud used by dealers ?
Yes, dealers use StopCarFraud. Dealers are targeted for fraud on a regular basis – whether it’s false identity, fake proof of income, hidden liens, unclear chain of ownership or cloned vehicles.
Where does StopCarFraud get its data?
StopCarFraud has many proprietary data sources. But the best data source is you – the information is staring you right in the face – we help you see it, interpret it and act appropriately.
Why do I need StopCarFraud?
Perpetrators of car fraud are equal opportunity crooks – they go where the money is – whether it’s the public, dealers or lenders. They are thieves and will sniff out the money where they can find someone in a rush or distracted. StopCarFraud gives you the confidence to make the right decision. SOMETIMES THE BEST DEAL IS THE ONE YOU DON’T DO.
If I buy a vehicle with a bad title, do I have recourse against the seller?
It depends on what a “bad title” is – if the car is stolen, you have little recourse. If there is a valid lien, you have little recourse. If Little Johnny sold the car out from under granny or pawpaw, you might be able to get a partial recovery. Even if you did have a legal claim for recovery, typically identifying the responsible party is hard and getting a judgement that can be enforced is even harder. That is why StopCarFraud is your best friend but only before cash exchanges hands!
Will StopCarFraud reimburse me if they are wrong?
StopCarFraud makes recommendations to give you confidence in your purchase – it is an information service. However, StopCarFraud has customized solutions including an expert & pro level reviews plus a buyer confidence guarantee that is available for an additional fee. Expert & Pro Level reviews come with a limited guarantee. StopCarFraud.com underwrites title insurance for person-to-person transactions.  StopCarFraud will perform an institutional grade title search, similar to title searches performed on residential real estate transactions.  If the results of this title search are acceptable, StopCarFraud will, for a fee, provide limited guarantee to buyer, paying up to $9,999 if vehicle/title ownership are unable to be transferred.  Subject to exclusions.
Does StopCarFraud have any testimonials ?
StopCarFraud has 1,000s of satisfied customers. Those testimonials will be posted to the website soon.
Why isn’t StopCarFraud totally free ? Why do they charge for Expert & Pro Level Review?
StopCarFraud has spent millions on research and development and in rare cases has lost money to fraudsters in developing the system to protect the user. We charge a modest fee with the goal of eventually recovering our R&D investment. Advanced level reviews also include accessing open-source background data and motor vehicle history searches that significantly increase cost which is passed on to the user.
What does Expert Level Review give me over and above the Free Fraud Score?
StopCarFraud expert level review is a personalized risk assessment that we have used to buy over $1 Billion of cars from the public. Our fraud detection specialists review vast amounts of data from the DMV, auctions, title services and open-source data to make recommendations that you can bank on.
Is StopCarFraud ever wrong? How reliable is it?
No system is 100%, but StopCarFraud is as good as it gets. We depend on user supplied information in part for our recommendation, so there are judgement calls that could potentially be missed by the user. We recommend the expert review if you are uncertain about your ability to interpret some of the questions.
If I just get a free Fraud Score and it is favorable, is it safe to buy the vehicle?
It’s better than nothing but we recommend a full report or expert review before parting with your hard-earned Money. StopCarFraud works day and night to prevent fraud and we need you to help us help you – if you are not sure, click expert review and let us help you.
Why was StopCarFraud created?
Billy and Michael asked themselves – what’s the hardest thing we do? Answer was easy – stopping car fraud. Finding cars, pricing cars, moving cars, reconditioning cars, selling cars – all these are hard, but nothing is harder than stopping car fraud. No fraudster is ever going to reveal themselves explicitly – they take advantage of your good faith and high trust nature. They smile as the rip you off. We always viewed fraud as the most devastating part of the car business. As we built the system for our internal use, we realized we could help more hard-working Americans by releasing our system to the public.
Does StopCarFraud really work?
Billy and Michael have been using StopCarFraud in their business for over a decade. Over a billion $ in cars bought, 1,000s of cars annually and less than 1 total fraud loss per year. This is an unprecedented figure in terms of how miniscule it is.
How is StopCarFraud Different from CarFax or Experian AutoCheck?
CarFax and AutoCheck are great systems. The provide valuable information about vehicle history – when it was registered, when car had an oil change, when it was in an accident. StopCarFraud goes much deeper – when help you, the buyer to determine if what the seller is selling is going to present problems with transfer of ownership, registration of titling. Remember, once they have your money they typically have moved on, and will not or can not help you if you run in to issues with DMV and get stuck with a car you can’t drive.
Do I still need to pay for a CarFax Report if I get a StopCarFraud Free Fraud Score Report?
We at StopCarFraud don’t make buy recommendations on other companies’ products and services. We will say however, that the more information you have, the better.
Should I give the StopCarFraud Report to the seller of the vehicle I am interested in? If not, what is the best way to advise a vehicle owner that I don’t feel comfortable proceeding with a purchase after StopCarFraud has advised me?
You are welcome to share the StopCarFraud report with anybody. In fact, it may provide the logic or reasoning that would motivate seller to provide you additional information about the car and it’s supporting documentation. “Hey I’d love to finalize this deal right now, but I need to following documents, per StopCarFraud to minimize potential issues in the future”. We have found it’s best to find common ground with seller and to work together to address your concerns as buyer. Being accusatory on judgmental is counterproductive - getting your interests aligned with the buyer is key to a successful transaction.
Can a seller sue me or StopCarFraud if I cancel a purchase after an Expert Review or even a Free Fraud Score Report?
StopCarFraud does not guarantee the title for a Free Fraud Report or the Expert Review. However, we do provide a Guarantee of Title which is based on the sale price of the vehicle. We would guarantee that the title is valid and transferable and that you will be able to register the vehicle and ride! It is important to know that passing vehicle safety and emissions (smog) inspections are the buyers responsibility. Also, taxes and registration fees must be paid by the buyer to register the vehicle. Additionally, it’s important to know that in some states, like California, the previous owner’s DMV fees are the responsibility of the buyer, so you much factor this into your final price. In some states, like New Mexico, other liens can be placed against the car – such as overdue child support. This must be checked with the state by buyer for privacy reasons.
Will StopCarFraud catch identity theft scammers ?
StopCarFraud can only identify potential fraud issues. We do work with Federal, State and Local Law Enforcement to share intelligence about specific criminals and organized crime rings, as well as best practices for fraud prevention.
How does StopCarFraud catch forgeries?
StopCarFraud can only identify potential fraud issues. We do work with Federal, State and Local Law Enforcement to share intelligence about specific criminals and organized crime rings, as well as best practices for fraud prevention.
Can StopCarFraud prevent me from buying a stolen vehicle?
If the theft has been reported, StopCarFraud can help identify the issue. Certain times there is a delay in reporting a theft – that’s why you should exercise extreme caution when buyer a car from a private party that just recently had the title issued. Sometimes the theft record is not reported until after the crook titles in their name. Many times the bad guys take advantage of delays in reporting of a theft, salvage or lien to get a clear title before the “brand” catches up. Sadly, the legitimate buyer often gets stuck with a non-negotiable title and/or a hot car.
What if the seller of a vehicle I am interested in has friends inside the DMV (motor vehicle division) and the title stock is real? Can that fraud still be prevented ?
StopCarFraud can help identify the issue with an expert review. It’s often the title number that does not match the vehicle’s true history and ownership. This is one of the toughest areas to combat – but together we can prevent you from being ripped off and report the issue to authorities.
When is a physical inspection of a vehicle required and how would I get that done? Does StopCarFraud perform the inspection for me ?
StopCarFraud does not perform physical inspections. However, we can refer you to our partners that do perform this service as part of their core offering.
Can StopCarFraud provide a recommendation for a physical inspection in my area if VIN Verification is needed? (Video Opportunity)

Local or state police are good at doing VIN verification. However, an every-day citizen can spot a potential VIN issue without needing to involve the police. StopCarFraud has identified 3 major areas of VIN tampers:

VINs don’t match – VIN on doorjamb does not match VIN on dashboard (and title/registration)

Stickers – Sticker with just VIN is placed over the legitimate VIN – it almost looks identical

Replacement VIN – these are legal but very rear and must be disclosed on the title

What if I really want to buy the vehicle and StopCarFraud tells me not to?
It’s like when your mother told you not to touch the hot stovetop – don’t do it. Remember, we are on the side of truth and fair trade. The only time we win is when YOU DON’T LOSE and that may mean walking away from a sale.
What if the seller doesn’t have a Drivers License? Does that mean I can’t buy their vehicle?
You could be buying a stolen vehicle – how would you verify they own the car and have the right to sell it if you don’t know their name. A Government Issued ID or Passport would also suffice, but you have a deficiency that needs a reasonable explanation. If the seller of the vehicle lost their license due to a DUI they should have alternate form of State Issued ID. If they don’t have one, it is a red flag for sure!
Can auto dealers setup an account with StopCarFraud or do they pay for reports individually? 
StopCarFraud offers dealer membership options or individual reports to the dealer. For person-to-person transactions we offer multiple quantity report options for those wish to evaluating multiple cars.
If my seller appears to be honest and willing to work through any potential issues that SCF has identified, will SCF coach us through to the finish line? 
Absolutely, StopCarFraud will help you with Expert Review evaluate any potential ownership issues.
What should I do if I suspect fraud, or if StopCarFraud suspects fraud?
If fraud has been identified, walk away from the vehicle transaction. If a potential risk has been identified, we recommend the expert review if you are uncertain about the risk identified.
Can used car dealers set up an account with StopCarFraud to streamline their vehicle checks, or do they need to pay for each report individually?
Yes, dealers can setup an account with StopCarFraud to be billed monthly. Please contact StopCarFraud for details. 
If I purchase the expert level review how will the payment appear in my bank account? StopCarFraud.com? another name?
StopCarFraud will post on the credit card or bank statement.
Is there a customer service number I can call if there is an issue with my payment?
Yes – 888-888-8888
If I purchase the expert level review is there some kind of report I can have stating all the facts found?  Copy of Carfax or the window sticker from Carfax if available? or do you provide another type of report?
StopCarFraud will share any underlying research that we’ve undertaken with you, if legally permitted in your state.
What if someone presents their title and it is damaged, scribbled on or has white-out (correction fluid) on it? 
We highly recommend Expert Review in this scenario – a lot can be wrong with this purchase!
If the seller has possession of a title from a title-held state and there is an open lien does the lien release have to be original? What should the LR look like?
Yes – for more information on Lien Releases please click here.
Am I able to buy a car from a minor?
Yes, but it’s possible that their parent or guardian could void the contract as they are not the age of legal majority. It’s best to get parental consent “in writing” when buying from a minor.
What can SCF see that other reports don’t show?
Salvage history not on title, theft records, etc. This question from the word document below can be broken up into two or three, based on which scenario; talk about salvage, talk about salvage not rebuilt so would need state inspection, etc.
Why do I need StopCarFraud?
Perpetrators of car fraud are equal opportunity operators – they go where the money is – whether it’s the public, dealers or lenders. They are thieves and will sniff out the money where they can find someone in a rush or that is distracted. StopCarFraud gives you the confidence to make the right decision.
If I buy a vehicle with a bad title, do I have recourse against the seller?
It depends on what a “bad title” is – if the car is stolen, you have little recourse. If there is a valid lien, you have little recourse. If Little Johnny sold the car out from under granny or pawpaw, you might be able to geta partial recovery. Even if you did have a legal claim for recovery, typically identifying the responsible party is hard and getting a judgement that can be enforced is even harder.” It is critical that you never have to hear the words “this looks like a civil matter, not a crime”. That is when law enforcement officials tell you they can’t make an arrest and you are on your own. THIS IS PRECISELY WHY WE CREATED StopCarFraud.com.
Can StopCarFraud tell me if the person selling the vehicle is an imposter?
Yes, StopCarFraud’s process includes a comprehensive identity verification. For added security, our Pro Search will perform a tertiary background check to verify address, age, social media, email and phone number cross checks.