Marketplace buyer scam
Quick answer
A scammer poses as a buyer to trick a seller into shipping goods or refunding an 'overpayment' before any real payment clears.
- Confirm money has actually arrived in your account through your bank, not a message.
What it is
A scammer poses as a buyer to trick a seller into shipping goods or refunding an 'overpayment' before any real payment clears.
How it works
The 'buyer' sends a fake payment confirmation or claims to have overpaid, then pressures you to ship or refund the difference.
Red flags to watch for
- Payment confirmation by email or screenshot only
- Overpayment with a request for a refund
- Pressure to ship before funds clear
- Use of a courier they arrange
Example
A buyer sends a payment screenshot and asks you to ship immediately. This is risky because the payment may be fake and the screenshot proves nothing.
What not to do
- Do not ship before funds clear in your account
- Do not refund overpayments
The safe next step
Confirm money has actually arrived in your account through your bank, not a message.
Often seen on: Facebook Marketplace, Classifieds, WhatsApp.
Commonly targets: Private sellers.
How to verify safely
- Do not use links, phone numbers, QR codes, or email addresses from the suspicious message.
- Open the official app or website yourself - type the address manually.
- Call a contact you have saved, or the number printed on your bank card.
- If you are threatened or in immediate danger, contact local emergency services or police.
How to report it
Report to the platform and your national fraud authority.
Find official links for your country in the scam reporting directory.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a marketplace buyer scam?
A scammer poses as a buyer to trick a seller into shipping goods or refunding an 'overpayment' before any real payment clears.
How can I avoid a marketplace buyer scam?
Confirm money has actually arrived in your account through your bank, not a message.
What should I do if I have already been affected?
Contact your bank or the relevant provider through official channels, change any exposed passwords from a trusted device, and save evidence. See our recovery guides, and be wary of recovery scams that promise to get your money back for a fee.