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Army and Air Force Exchange Service officials are warning soldiers and military families to be aware of scammers using the Exchange's logo.

In a news release Wednesday, Exchange officials said scammers using the name “Exchange Inc.” have “fooled” soldiers and airmen to broker the sale of used cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats and boat engines.

“For years, scammers have used the Exchange's trademarked logo and name without permission to purportedly sell vehicles in the United States,” said Steve Boyd, the Exchange's loss prevention vice president. “Some military members have sent money thinking they're dealing with the Exchange, only to receive nothing in return.”

Military exchanges do not have the authority to sell vehicles or represent private sellers in completing transactions in the continental United States, officials said.

The Exchange operates solely on military installations and via ShopMyExchange.com. The Exchange does not act as a broker in private transactions and does not advertise in classified advertisement or resale websites.

Exchange officials said the scammers potential buyers to use multiple third-party gift cards to pay for purchases.

To verify suspicious payment method requests, military shoppers can call Exchange Customer Service at 800-527-2345.

Shoppers who believe that they may have been taken advantage of can file a complaint through the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.

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