Otter Tail County, MN – The Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents of scam impersonating a former local automotive dealership.
The Sheriff’s Office says someone is impersonating Truax Auto Sales in an attempt to scam customers. The department says the individual is not affiliated with the actual Truax Detailing and Sales out of Deer Creek. Deputies spoke with the actual owner, who says that they no longer sell cars and only do detailing work.
The individual is using a fake website called TRUAXAUTOSALES.COM and is “selling” customers vehicles and then not delivering them. So far, at least $75,000 have been lost by this scam.
The Sheriff’s Office says they may use the name, logo, or similar branding in order to appear legitimate. The department has issued a few signs to watch out for:
- Requests for payment upfront via wire transfer, gift cards, or cash apps
- Communication only via text or messaging apps, avoiding in-person meetings
- Fake documents or listings with Truax Auto Sales branding
If you receive any suspicious calls or messages, or think you may have been scammed, contact the Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office at (218)-998-8555
