Audi Issues Warning Over Fraud in the Used Car Market

Audi has warned consumers about fraudulent used car offers in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Learn how the scam works and how to stay cautious.

AUDI AG has issued an official warning about a large-scale fraud scheme affecting the used-car market in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. According to the company, criminals are operating fraudulent websites and catalogs that closely resemble legitimate Audi sales channels in order to offer non-existent vehicles at unusually low prices.

Audi states that the fraudsters deliberately exploit the trust associated with the brand. They use fake domain names, counterfeit email addresses, telephone numbers, and bank details. In some cases, images of real employees of official Audi sales partners have been misused to make the offers appear credible.

A central element of the scam is the particularly attractive pricing. Potential buyers are encouraged to make advance payments or complete purchases for vehicles that do not exist. AUDI AG confirms that several customers have already fallen victim to this scheme.

The company has filed a criminal complaint and is cooperating closely with the investigating authorities. Audi urges affected individuals to report the incidents to the police. As part of its warning, the automaker has published an extensive list of email addresses that may appear to be associated with Audi but are not connected to AUDI AG in any way.

Audi emphasizes that official used-car sales take place exclusively through verified partners and certified programs. Any offers originating from suspicious websites or catalogs should therefore be treated with extreme caution. In light of the growing prevalence of online fraud across Europe, the company advises consumers to carefully verify sales channels and avoid advance payments outside official Audi structures.