Marketplace scams
Marketplace scams target buyers and sellers with fake payment screenshots, overpayment 'refund' requests, fake courier pickups, and rushed shipping. A screenshot is never proof of payment.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15.
How these scams usually work
On buying and selling platforms, the scam adapts to which side you are on. A 'buyer' sends a screenshot showing a payment that never actually arrives, or claims to have overpaid and asks for the difference back. A 'seller' takes payment for goods that never ship, or arranges a fake courier pickup. Many try to move you off the platform to a chat app, away from its protections, and rush you with claims that another buyer is waiting. The pressure to act fast is meant to stop you confirming the money has truly cleared.
What the scammers want
- Your item before real payment
- Refunds of 'overpayments'
- Off-platform contact
Common red flags
What to do
- Only act once money truly clears in your account.
- Confirm in your banking app.
- Be wary of buyers who rush you.
What not to do
- Do not ship on a screenshot.
- Do not refund 'overpayments'.
- Do not leave the platform's protected channels.
Common scam messages in this category
Top scam types
Related trend reports
If you were affected
See our recovery guides and report through official channels via the reporting directory. Be wary of anyone offering to recover lost money for an upfront fee.
Official sources checked
- CFPB - Classic warning signs of fraud and scams - High reliability
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Check a messageFrequently asked questions
Is a payment screenshot proof?
No. Screenshots are easily faked. Only treat money as received when it clears in your own account.
A buyer says they overpaid and wants the difference refunded - what should I do?
Do not send anything. The original payment is usually fake or will be reversed, so refund overpayments only through the platform after money has genuinely cleared in your account.
Why do scammers want to move the deal off the platform?
Platform messaging and payments offer some protection and a record. Moving to a chat app removes that and makes it easier to pressure you and disappear.