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GEORGIA. (WALB) — Georgia’s Number one industry is being targeted by scammers selling fake equipment, according to the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA).

The GDA says Scammers are impersonating farm equipment dealers trying to deceive potential buyers. The Scammers are using artificial intelligence and other advanced technology to imitate legitimate businesses, websites, advertisements, and emails according to the GDA.

“Unfortunately, our state’s #1 industry is not immune to crime, and Georgia farmers are being targeted by online scammers. The safest approach is to personally visit the dealership, put your own eyes on the equipment, and complete the purchase in person. Taking these extra steps can prevent significant financial losses while we work to hold the perpetrators accountable.”

In this scam, Farmers looking at equipment, are contacted by individuals posing as dealership agents. The agents instruct the buyer to wire money electronically to complete the purchase. The equipment is not delivered or it may not have existed.

Farmers are encouraged to:

• Verify the dealership independently
• Discuss large online purchases with a finical institution before transferring any funds.          
• Don’t send money wire services or electronic payments to unfamiliar accounts
• If possible, visit the dealership to inspect the equipment in person
• Use a cashier check or other secure payment method

Those that believe they are being scammed, or have knowledge about these scams are asked to contact local authorities.

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