Dealers are being probed for allegedly requesting early access to vehicle listings.
Image: Newspress
In what’s being described as a “serious breach of trust” AutoTrader is currently investigating some of its employees and dealers for suspected collusion over private listings.
The online automotive marketplace said it was made aware that some of its employees and dealers had been approached by dealerships, who allegedly offered payments or incentives for early access to private consumer vehicle listings.
Not only is this unethical, it said in a statement released this week, but this practice is also in breach of South Africa’s data privacy laws, including the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
“We are currently conducting a full internal investigation and engaging with the relevant parties. Disciplinary and legal action will follow where appropriate,” AutoTrader said.
It reiterated that AutoTrader employees are strictly prohibited from accepting any form of payment, gift or incentive, monetary or otherwise, from sources outside the company.
Furthermore, any dealer found to be engaging in such behavior would have their services with AutoTrader immediately suspended, and where necessary the company would refer such matters to the relevant legal authorities.
“Dealers attempting to solicit such information are in breach of ethical business conduct and the law,” the company added.
“Misuse or unauthorised sharing of consumer data is a serious violation under POPIA, and AutoTrader is obligated to report such offences to the relevant authorities.”
Any parties with information about unethical conduct are urged to contact AutoTrader’s whistleblower hotline on: (087) 256-5400.
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