Fake courier pickup
A 'buyer' arranges a courier and asks you (the seller) to pay a pickup, insurance, or release fee.
Why it matters
Sellers never pay a buyer's courier; the 'refunded later' promise never happens.
Example only - do not act on it
Example only: I'll send a courier - pay the fee now and I'll refund it.
Why scammers use this
It extracts a real payment from you under cover of completing a sale.
What to do
- Stop and verify who you're really paying through an official channel.
- Never pay a fee to receive money, a refund, a prize, or to 'release' funds.
- If money moved, contact your bank or payment provider immediately.
What not to do
- Don't pay to receive money or 'unlock' funds.
- Don't trust payment screenshots as proof.
- Don't pay via gift cards, wire, or crypto to someone unverified.
How to verify safely
Confirm any payment inside your official banking or payment app; receiving money never requires you to pay, scan, or enter a PIN.
Scams where this appears
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Related scam-type hubs
Emergency guides
Related terms
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Check a messageFrequently asked questions
Should I pay the buyer's courier?
No. Real buyers don't make sellers pay courier or insurance fees. Keep the deal on the official platform.