Why do scammers target military members?

Scammers exploit: steady income (guaranteed paycheck), deployments (easy excuse for remote sales), trust culture (tendency to help fellow "service members"), mobility (frequent moves create buying opportunities), and young demographics (less experience with scams).

What is the deployment scam?

Scammer poses as deployed service member selling vehicle cheaply due to deployment. They claim vehicle is in storage, offer shipping after payment, and provide fake military credentials. There is no vehicle—only your lost money.

How can I verify a military seller?

Ask specific questions about their unit and duty station. Real service members answer naturally. Request to meet at their base (scammers can't access). Contact the base legal office (JAG) for verification resources. Never pay before physically inspecting the vehicle.

Are military discount offers legitimate?

Some dealers offer genuine military discounts. However, scammers advertise fake "military only" deals to lure victims. Verify any dealer through the base legal office or military affairs organization before purchasing.

Military Car Scams 2025: How Scammers Target Service Members

Why Military Members Are Targeted

Military service members are 2.5 times more likely to be scammed than civilians. Scammers exploit the military lifestyle: deployments, frequent moves, steady income, and the trust culture within the military community.

Deployment Scam Warning

If a seller claims to be deployed and can't meet in person, it's almost certainly a scam. Real deployed service members don't sell vehicles remotely to strangers—they use the base lemon lot or trusted friends.

Common Military-Targeted Scams

The Deployment Scam

Scammer poses as deployed service member selling vehicle at below-market price. They claim the car is in storage and will ship after payment. They provide fake military IDs and unit information. No vehicle exists.

Fake Military Discount

Fraudulent dealers advertise exclusive military pricing to attract service members. The "discount" is either nonexistent or compensated for with hidden fees. Some are fronts for complete scams.

Lemon Lot Fraud

Even on-base lemon lots aren't immune. Sellers sometimes misrepresent vehicle condition, hide damage, or roll back odometers knowing buyers trust the base environment.

JAG Resources

Every base has a legal assistance office (JAG) that can help verify sellers, review contracts, and advise on transactions. Use these free resources before any significant purchase.

Protection Strategies

Never pay before physically inspecting the vehicle
Meet sellers on base when possible (scammers can't access)
Verify military credentials through official channels
Use base legal assistance for contract review
Check with Military OneSource for approved dealers
Trust your instincts—urgent pressure is a red flag

WATCH

Stay Vigilant, Use Resources

Pros

Base resources exist to help
JAG provides free legal assistance
Community awareness is growing

Cons

Scammers specifically target military
Deployment lifestyle creates vulnerabilities
Recovery of losses is rare

Recommendation

Military members should leverage every available resource: JAG offices, base lemon lots, Military OneSource, and chain of command guidance. Never rush a vehicle purchase, and never pay before inspecting in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Scam Prevention

Deposit Scams When Buying Cars Online

Market Updates

San Antonio Used Car Market 2025