Massachusetts Sees Spike in Hurricane Sandy Title Scams

The Registry of Motor Vehicles is warning consumers in western Massachusetts to watch out for scammers who sell cars with reconstructed titles from Oregon that mask vehicles damaged during Hurricane Sandy.

The RMV says hidden water damage could pose dangers in the long-term, including system failure and safety problems.

The agency says it is stepping up scrutiny of the reconstructed titles. It also asks consumers in and around Springfield, Mass., to investigate vehicle history before making a purchase by visiting www.vehiclehistory.gov or www.carfax.com/flood .

Red flags on these reports include a damage report filed Nov. 29, 2012 indicating a total loss vehicle, a salvage titled issued in New York or New Jersey salvage and a title issued by Oregon.

RMV Registrar Rachel Kaprielian says the agency has seen more than 50 titled that fit this bill.