How the scam works:

You've always wanted a Ferrari. While browsing the Internet one day you stumble across a company that makes replica Ferraris in a different state.

The person who posted this information in an online forum raves about how happy he is with his replica Ferrari and how realistic it looks - and he only paid $18,000 for it!

Someone else on the forum claims they know somebody who is equally impressed with their own replica. So, interested, you look at the company's website. It looks great and you decide to contact them. Somebody calls you back and you agree on a price. Everybody seems to be happy - they don't even ask you for the full fee upfront. You can pay in increments and they will purchase the necessary parts and start the work.

The deal is on and soon they inform you they have started! Exciting, right? You might even become friends as they are nice guys and call you daily or weekly with updates. Having a $120,000 car for only $18,000 might seem like hitting the jackpot, but don't do it.

Building a car doesn't happen overnight and the "builders" will keep asking for your increments over the next six months. They will even send you pictures of the work in progress so you can brag to your friends, "That's my baby, right there! "

The problem is that they are sending the same picture to other victims. Suddenly one day they aren't answering the phone and their website is shut down. They have either gone bust or skipped to another state and you are a great deal poorer and still driving your old car.

How to avoid:

If you are thinking of getting a replica car, get it made in a garage that's in your hometown. Check the place out before you part with a cent and keep an eye on the progress of the work by visiting on a regular basis.

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