You think you've found a potential buyer on Etsy. What you don't expect: that there is a scam lurking behind this request. But that is exactly what is currently happening to many users of the platform.
In this article you will learn how to identify these fraudulent requests and protect yourself effectively.
The bait: your contact details
Maybe you've received a message about one of your items in which someone expresses interest but claims problems with payment. These supposed buyers often try to ask for your email address or phone number. This may sound harmless, but this is where the scammers' tactics begin.
Remember: Etsy never requires you to provide your email address or phone number to complete a sale.
The trick with the fake emails from “etsy”
Once you have provided your email address, you may receive an email that appears to be from Etsy. These fake emails look deceptively real: the scammers imitate Etsy's design down to the smallest detail.
However, instead of a purchase confirmation, you will be asked to click on a link and confirm your payment details. And this is exactly where the danger lies: By entering this data, criminals have access to your money.
How to recognize fake requests
To avoid falling for this scam, you should look out for the following signs:
- Unsolicited requests for personal information. Would a real buyer really ask you for your email address or phone number?
- Links in messages from unknown buyers or “support agents”. Never click on such links!
- Alleged changes in the sales process. If someone tells you that Etsy has changed its processes and now requires your email address, be skeptical!
- Do not respond to such requests and report them to the platform.
Safety first: tips for safe sales
- Only use the Etsy messaging portal for communication.
- Never share personal information with buyers.
- Do not open links in messages from unknown senders.
- And most importantly: do not confirm payments in your bank app!
What to do if you've been cheated on?
It can happen that you fall for such a scam. If that's the case:
- Notify your bank or credit card company immediately to stop payments.
- Report it to the police.
Conclusion
Unfortunately, fraudulent requests are also a reality on platforms like Etsy. However, that shouldn't diminish the joy of it. It is all the more important to know about such scams in order to be able to protect yourself effectively. Then selling your self-made items will be fun again.
Note: On November 14, 2023, we will be holding an online workshop on the topic “How YOU can recognize fake news”. Given the current debate about digital media authenticity, this is a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas with experts and educate yourself. To participate, please register here.
Source: Watchlist Internet
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Notes:
1) This content reflects the current state of affairs at the time of publication. The reproduction of individual images, screenshots, embeds or video sequences serves to discuss the topic. 2) Individual contributions were created through the use of machine assistance and were carefully checked by the Mimikama editorial team before publication. ( Reason )