A chilling tale of online vehicle fraud has emerged from Kent, where a clever con artist duo nearly succeeded in duping a local resident. Jay Cross, a 64-year-old from Folkestone, found himself the target of a devious scheme involving a 'black oil' scam. But here's where it gets controversial... The con artists, posing as potential buyers, managed to convince Mr. Cross that his Mercedes was beyond repair, all while secretly sabotaging the engine. This is the part most people miss... The scam involves pouring black engine oil on the engine and spraying it around, creating a mess and convincing the seller that the car is worthless. The story begins with Mr. Cross, a former construction firm boss, who was approached by two bearded men interested in buying his 2014 Mercedes, valued at £12,000. The men, who visited Mr. Cross' home on January 13, distracted him while one secretly poured oil on the engine. They claimed the engine had blown, and the car was worthless, pestering Mr. Cross to let them tow it away for free. The scammer's persistence and argument that the car was valueless became a battle of wits, leaving Mr. Cross feeling pressured and tired. The men refused to leave, and Mr. Cross eventually gave in, paying them £200 to go away. But the story doesn't end there. The next day, a technician confirmed that the engine was fine, and the car was in good condition. The oil spillage damaged Mr. Cross' driveway, costing an estimated £4,500 to repair. This incident is not an isolated case; similar scams have been reported across the country. So, what's the lesson here? The AA advises sellers to remain vigilant, have a friend or relative present, and check oil and coolant levels at the start of the vehicle tour. And this is the part most people miss... Be cautious of potential buyers, and always trust your instincts. The black oil scam is a clever con, and it's important to be aware of these tactics to protect yourself and others from falling victim.
