Online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, OLX, eBay, and others have made buying and selling easier than ever. But with convenience comes risk — these platforms have also become hotspots for scammers targeting both buyers and sellers.
Whether it’s a fake payment, a product that never arrives, or a buyer who disappears after getting the item, fraud is rampant. Here’s how to spot the red flags and protect yourself from losing money.
🔍 Common Scams on Online Marketplaces
➤ For Buyers:
- Fake Listings: Scammers post too-good-to-be-true items (cheap phones, laptops, tickets) that don’t exist.
- Advance Payment Scams: You’re asked to pay a deposit or full amount — and then the seller vanishes.
- Fake Shipping: The scammer claims the item is “in transit” but never sends anything.
➤ For Sellers:
- Overpayment Scams: Buyer “accidentally” sends more and asks for a refund — then cancels the payment.
- Fake Proof of Payment: Scammer sends edited screenshots pretending to have paid.
- Stolen Accounts: Scammers hijack legitimate buyer accounts and trick you into sending the item.
⚠️ Red Flags to Watch For
- Sellers/buyers rush the transaction or apply pressure.
- They refuse to meet in person (if local).
- Payment is requested through unsecure methods like gift cards, wire transfers, or PayPal Friends & Family.
- The deal sounds too good to be true.
- Profiles with low activity or newly created accounts.
🛡️ How to Stay Safe
- Always meet in public, well-lit places if you’re dealing locally.
- Use secure payment methods like PayPal Goods & Services or cash in person.
- Don’t share personal information, especially bank details or ID.
- Research the profile before committing to a deal.
- Keep records — screenshots of conversations and payment proof.
❗What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
- Report the scam to the platform (e.g., eBay, Facebook).
- Notify your bank or payment provider immediately.
- File a report with your local police or cybercrime unit.
- Contact Fast-Recover — our team specializes in online fraud recovery and investigation.
🆘 Need Help?
If you’ve lost money on a marketplace scam, we’re here to help.
📩 Email: info@fast-recover.com
🌐 Website: www.fast-recover.com
