Chat Safety

At PrivateAuto, we prioritize the safety and security of our users. When engaging in conversations with potential buyers or sellers on our platform, it's crucial to be aware of certain safety measures to protect yourself from potential scams. Follow these chat safety tips to ensure a secure and smooth car buying or selling experience.

Check the User's Verification Status

Take advantage of PrivateAuto's identity verification features to ensure a secure and trustworthy transaction. PrivateAuto offers a comprehensive verification process that includes email, phone, and driver's license verification directly within the app. We highly recommend that all users undergo this verification process. You can view the user's verification status within the chat and it will show check marks beside the verification steps they have completed.

On desktop, the verification status of a user shows on the top right of the screen:

On mobile, you will need to click "Details" beside the user's name to view the verification steps they have completed.

There is also a badge displayed on the user's profile picture that gives a quick overview of the user's verification status. Here is a breakdown of the three verification badges:

The verification process is designed solely to complete the identity verification for your PrivateAuto account, enhancing the overall safety of your interactions on the platform. Proceed with caution if you decide to buy or sell a car from a non-verified user.

Protect Your Personal Information

Never share sensitive personal information, such as your home address, phone number, or financial details, within the chat. Keep communication within the platform to maintain a layer of security.

Avoid Clicking on External Links

Exercise caution when encountering links in the chat. Do not click on any external links that you do not recognize. Scammers may use these links to phish for personal information or install malware on your device.

Be Skeptical of External History Reports

Do not purchase vehicle history reports from external sources outside of PrivateAuto. We provide a comprehensive vehicle history reports within the platform that buyers can refer to. Avoid falling for scams that request payment for unnecessary reports.

Stay Within the Chat Platform

We recommend keeping all communication within the PrivateAuto chat platform. Avoid switching communication to an external messaging system or giving out your email or phone number. This ensures that our security measures remain effective, and any potential issues can be addressed promptly.

Utilize PrivateAuto Pay for Secure Transactions

For secure transactions involving large sums of money, take advantage of PrivateAuto's built-in payment feature – PrivateAuto Pay. This secure payment method within our app ensures a safe and traceable transfer of funds, providing peace of mind for both buyers and sellers.

Exercise caution if someone suggests using a cashier's check. While cashier's checks may seem legitimate, they can be susceptible to fraud. Scammers may provide fake or altered checks, leading to financial loss. Stick to PrivateAuto Pay for a seamless and secure payment experience, minimizing the risks associated with alternative payment methods. Your financial safety is our priority.

Report Suspicious Activity

If you encounter any suspicious behavior or believe you are being targeted by a scam, report the user to PrivateAuto immediately. To report a user, you can click the "Report User" button within the chat. This feature allows you to immediately flag and report suspicious activity, helping us maintain a secure environment for all users.

To report a user on desktop, click on "Report User" on the right sidebar:

To report a user on mobile, click on "Details" beside the user's name in the top right. From there, you will click the "Report User" text near the bottom of the page:

Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your instincts. Be cautious of deals that seem too attractive or sellers who pressure you to make quick decisions. Take your time and conduct due diligence before finalizing any transactions.

By following these chat safety tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to scams during the car buying or selling process on PrivateAuto. Our commitment to providing a secure platform is unwavering, and your safety is our top priority. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to our customer support team for assistance.