Domain Investigation Report
Report generated: Dec 17, 2025
autotrader.com
http://autotrader.comWhy we think so?
Autotrader.com is a high-traffic U.S.-based online vehicle marketplace with about 27.6 million monthly visits. It offers new and used cars, trucks, and SUVs, plus tools like affordability calculators and instant cash offers. Technically, it uses reputable infrastructure like Akamai and Amazon Cloud services and implements robust security measures including valid SSL certificates. The domain is owned and operated by TPI Holdings, Inc., a well-known legal entity with several live trademarks on the "AUTOTRADER" brand. The site is not blacklisted for phishing or crypto scams, and Google Safe Browsing flags no risk. User reviews note typical complaints about customer service and fraud prevention challenges common to classified listing platforms. Autotrader provides clear contact channels and anti-fraud resources. Recent court cases involving privacy tracking claims were dismissed for lack of plaintiff standing, affirming the company's compliance in legal scrutiny. Overall, autotrader.com is a legitimate and well-established platform with some common marketplace risks but no direct scam indicators.
Risk Insights
High Traffic and Strong Brand
- Approximately 27.6M monthly visits primarily from the U.S.
- Multiple registered trademarks owned by corporate entity
- Robust infrastructure promotes stable service
Common Marketplace Risks Present
- User complaints about refund denials and third-party scams
- Fraud prevention is challenging but acknowledged by the site
- Customer service issues reported but some resolutions occur
Category Scores
Red Flags & Warnings
- Multiple customer complaints about refund denials, poor customer service, and fraudulent inquiries via the platform.
- Challenges in fraud prevention noted by users, due to scammer activities targeting sellers through listings.
Detailed Checks & Insights
0-100 Scale
Traffic Volume and Rank
Score: 90
Traffic Volume and Rank
Reason: The site receives about 27.6M visits monthly with a global rank around 1287, indicating high legitimacy.
Technical and Security Infrastructure
Score: 90
Technical and Security Infrastructure
Reason: Utilizes reputable CDN providers like Akamai and Amazon, with a valid SSL certificate ensuring secure connections.
Domain Ownership and Trademark Status
Score: 95
Domain Ownership and Trademark Status
Reason: Domain registered to TPI Holdings, Inc. with several live trademark registrations for AUTOTRADER.
Presence in Scam or Blacklist Databases
Score: 95
Presence in Scam or Blacklist Databases
Reason: Domain not found on crypto scam blacklists or Google Safe Browsing phishing or malware lists.
Reputation and Customer Feedback
Score: 80
Reputation and Customer Feedback
Reason: Customer complaints focus on refund and fraud issues typical in classified platforms; no indication the site itself is fraudulent.
Legal and Compliance Checks
Score: 90
Legal and Compliance Checks
Reason: Recent legal challenges related to privacy tracking were dismissed, indicating compliance with applicable laws.
Your Next Steps
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1
Use Autotrader.com for vehicle searches but remain vigilant against third-party scams typical in classified listings.
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2
Use provided official contact emails and phone numbers to report suspicious activity or fraud attempts.
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3
Review terms of use and refund policies carefully before posting vehicle listings.
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4
Avoid sharing sensitive personal information off-platform or in unsolicited communications.
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5
If privacy concerns arise, review the site's privacy policies and note recent court rulings affirming its compliance.
Evidence & Citations
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SimilarWeb traffic and site analytics for autotrader.com
Shows detailed traffic stats and ranking.
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Technology stack and hosting analysis for autotrader.com
Confirms use of reputable CDN and security technologies.
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Whois and SSL certificate data for autotrader.com
Valid SSL cert and registrar details.
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USPTO Trademark database showing AUTOTRADER registrations
Multiple live trademark registrations confirming brand ownership.
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AutoTrader scam and fraud complaints analysis
Details of user complaints and scam reports.
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Recent court rulings involving Autotrader privacy claims
Dismissal of privacy lawsuit due to lack of standing.
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