VIP Number Auction Scam In Indore? Agents Allegedly Use Fake Competition To Grab Fancy Vehicle Numbers At Cheap Rates

In Indore, authorities have uncovered a troubling new tactic aimed at manipulating the online auction for VIP vehicle registration numbers. Scammers are allegedly orchestrating artificial competition by enlisting multiple bidders using fake identities to make it seem as though several people are already vying for the same number.

Once other interested buyers become dissuaded, the real bidder raises the final offer by just Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 to secure the desired number. The transport department, however, appears to lack the means to prevent such deceptive practices. In an earlier auction, four individuals competed for the highly coveted number 0001, yet the final price only rose by Rs 1,000 above the previous bid.

Free Press obtained details from an unnamed agent who explained the entire scheme. To obtain a particular number, the agent claimed they recruit four additional bidders under different aliases. These individuals are often close acquaintances. When genuine buyers notice the inflated number of competitors, they assume the price will escalate significantly and abandon the auction.

With fewer participants remaining, the actual bidder then increases the final bid by a small amount, securing the number at a much lower cost. The agent mentioned having successfully used this method to acquire the 9999 registration number for its base price of just Rs 25,000. Additionally, he claimed to have obtained several other numbers through similar tactics.

Under the current auction system, the deposit made by unsuccessful bidders is refunded the following day, meaning those orchestrating bids through their acquaintances do not face significant initial financial outlay. Regional transport officer Pradeep Sharma confirmed receiving reports of these exploitative practices and pledged to inform the headquarters, where necessary steps will be taken.