Most people on classified sites are honest. A small number are not, and they use the same few tricks again and again. Once you know the patterns they are easy to recognise.
Warning signs in an ad
- The price is far below what similar items sell for, with a story that explains why (moving abroad, urgent sale, inherited item).
- The photos look like catalogue or stock images, or the same photos appear in other ads.
- The seller is “abroad” and will arrange delivery by a courier or shipping agent after you pay.
- The ad has no specific details: no model, no condition, no location, only a phone number or a request to chat elsewhere.
- The wording is pushy, for example “first to pay gets it” or “many people are interested”.
Warning signs in a conversation
- They ask you to pay a deposit, a “reservation fee”, a delivery fee or an “insurance” fee before you have seen the item.
- They insist on gift cards, prepaid vouchers, cryptocurrency or money transfer services that cannot be reversed.
- They want to move the conversation to another app straight away and avoid a phone call or a meeting.
- They send a link and ask you to log in or enter card details to “receive” payment or “confirm” the sale.
Scams aimed at sellers
Sellers are targeted too. A buyer who offers more than your asking price, offers to pay by cheque and then asks you to refund the difference, or sends a screenshot that “proves” payment, is almost certainly not genuine. Always check your own bank account or payment app. A screenshot or an email is not proof that money has arrived, and a payment can be reversed after you have handed over the item.
How to protect yourself
- Meet in a busy public place, in daylight, and bring a friend if you can.
- Inspect the item before you pay and pay only when you have it in your hands.
- Never share one-time passwords, bank logins or card security codes with anyone.
- Keep the conversation and the ad details until the deal is finished.
If something looks wrong
Stop the conversation and do not send any more money. Use the “Report this ad” link on the ad page so we can review it. If you have already paid, contact your bank or payment provider straight away and report the incident to your local police.