OADA was notified by a Central Ohio dealership of a recent case of suspected identity fraud. The dealership has requested that we share this information with our members.

A male arrived at the dealership, being dropped off from a U-Haul truck, with the intention of buying a new Ford Mustang. The man agreed to pay sticker price for the vehicle and agreed to pay for several additional products. The man did not test drive the vehicle, and did not provide proof of insurance.

During the financing process, the dealership noted several red flags:

• The man appeared to be "fidgety."
• The man claimed to have worked for a different employer than what was on his credit report.
• The man was dishonest about his income.
• The man provided an Ohio Interim Documentation / Interim ID that was issued on March 23, 2026. He opened a bank account on that same date.

The dealership informed this individual that they needed to verify his information with the lender. He then left the premises before finishing the deal and did not return. The dealership informed local law enforcement soon after.

Some general thoughts to consider when you believe there is suspicious activity:

• Verify customer identification
  • Make sure the ID does not appear to be fake, or digitally altered
  • Match the ID with the address they have provided on the loan application
• Confirm and cross-check the buyer's address
  • Use address verification tools to ensure the customer's address matches their application details
  • Request supporting documents that would verify they live at the address listed on the application
• Verify the customer's information with the finance company
• If the customer requests to test drive the vehicle, ensure they have a valid driver's license and insurance.