The Indiana State Police are warning of a sophisticated “re-VIN” scam targeting private vehicle buyers on social media.

Criminals are selling stolen cars using counterfeit titles and VIN stickers that look authentic but don’t match the vehicle’s internal computer.

To protect yourself, never pay cash until you have verified the seller’s ID, obtained a bill of sale, and—most importantly—had a dealership or shop internally scan the vehicle’s computer to confirm the VIN matches the paperwork.

Always meet at a police station or reputable shop to finalize the deal.