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Personal identity verification

Question

I'm trying to buy a used car from an individual here in Belgium. I'm trying to avoid being scammed, so I want to verify the identity of the seller. If I have him electronically send me a scan or photo of his protocol ID, is there some way I can verify that it's a valid ID and not a fake or photoshopped? Also, how safe is it to deposit money into his EU bank account? Can I verify with the bank that the account is in his name? Thanks for any advice!

anon

If you really are that worried, don't buy the car. Go to a dealer and get one there.

Alternatively, get a certified check from your bank and take that with you, hand it over to the seller when you have physical custody of the car and the registration papers.

Sep 26, 2018 15:27
becasse

See https://www.car-pass.be/en/buy and note that it offers online verification of authenticity. A private seller is also obliged to have a special controle technique done on the car which produces the documentation required for you to register the car in your name - this special CT is valid only for three months.

Sep 26, 2018 15:43
J

Look at his ID card - take a photo of both sides.
Ask you bank about how to make a secure payment.
Usually, the bank will write you a cheque that you hand over in exchange for the car.

Sep 26, 2018 18:43
stevus

Thanks for your responses. I realize I could buy used from a dealer, but that would cost ~€2-3K more for a similar car. I will be careful and look at the seller's docs, IDs, and verify the car-pass. And probably use a certified bank check.

From the lack of answers to my questions about verifying ID and bank account ownership, I'm guessing there's not a way to do that.

Sep 27, 2018 12:42
J

> verifying ID and bank account ownership
>> Ask you bank

Sep 27, 2018 16:30
stevus

I should ask my bank to verify an account at a different bank of a stranger?

Sep 27, 2018 18:37
J

Geez - some people are thick.
Your bank will explain how to go about the transaction without you being defrauded.

Sep 28, 2018 17:57