BURWELL, Neb. — A Burwell diesel repair business is warning the public after discovering a fraudulent website is using the company’s name and information to advertise vehicles for sale online.
According to a social media post shared by a family member of the business owner, the fake website has been using the business’s identity and artificial intelligence-generated vehicle images to market vehicles that do not actually exist. The business, TNT Diesel, is a diesel mechanic shop and does not sell vehicles.
The scheme has already created confusion for potential buyers. The post states that the business has received numerous phone calls from individuals inquiring about vehicles and that several people from outside Nebraska have even traveled to Burwell expecting to view vehicles that were advertised online.
In response, the family created a Facebook page for the business to help spread awareness and clarify that TNT Diesel has no connection to the fraudulent website.
The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office also issued a public notice warning residents and online shoppers about the scam.
“TNT Diesel Does Not Sell Pre-Owned Vehicles,” the sheriff’s office stated in its alert. Authorities said scammers are using artificial intelligence and online manipulation to make the operation appear legitimate.
Law enforcement is encouraging anyone considering an online vehicle purchase to verify that the vehicle exists and to inspect it in person before sending any money. Officials also caution consumers against wiring funds or sending deposits to sellers they have not verified.
“Never wire money to a business or someone online for a deposit,” the Facebook post warned. “It’s usually a scam.”
Anyone with questions or concerns about the situation is encouraged to contact the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office at 308-346-5150.
Authorities continue to urge the public to exercise caution when purchasing vehicles online and to verify businesses through official sources before completing any transactions.