A "straw buyer" is a person who purchases an item, often a property or a vehicle, on behalf of someone else. This arrangement is typically used to conceal the true buyer's identity or financial situation. The straw buyer may not intend to keep the item and often receives compensation for their role in the transaction. This practice can be illegal, especially in cases involving real estate or firearms, where it may be used to bypass regulations or restrictions. Authorities monitor such transactions to prevent fraud and ensure compliance with laws designed to protect consumers and maintain market integrity.