We show what sellers and customers should pay attention to when shopping on classified ad portals: Sellers on classified ad portals are increasingly offering the “secure payment” function. Fraudsters like to take advantage of this to steal sensitive data – mostly credit card data – from users.
Supposedly interested parties write to the seller and would like to process the payment using the actually existing classified ad payment method “Pay Securely” . As part of this, they request telephone numbers or obtain them from the public information provided by their victims (e.g. from advertisements in classified ads).
Link via messenger: Enter credit card details
The perpetrators then send a link via messenger service or SMS through which victims are supposed to enter payment details (usually credit card details) in order to receive or initiate the payment. However, instead of transferring money, the perpetrators withdraw money using the stolen credit card details. This process takes place abroad.
It is important to know that classifieds (formerly eBay classifieds) does not send messages via SMS or messenger in connection with “pay securely”. In addition, sellers are never asked to enter credit card details.
Our tips for protecting yourself from this scam
- Processing of payment data only via the messaging function of classifieds
- Never give out credit card details
- Do not follow payment requests that are not immediately displayed on the classifieds website/apps
Fraud with “friends” functions of payment services
In another scam, fraudsters offer the opportunity to process the transaction using the so-called “friend” functions of payment services . In some cases they offer a discount because there are no fees for the seller with this payment option.
However, customers should be careful with such offers and check them carefully. The fraudsters want to circumvent buyer protection or offer goods that don't even exist : the goods are then never delivered.
The problem: the fee-free transactions via friend functions practically work like cash . Once the money has been transferred, it can no longer be retrieved - the money is gone .
Check offers and think carefully before transferring money using the friend functions - especially if sellers say this will reduce the price.
If you have been a victim of fraud
If you have already fallen for one of these scams, contact your bank immediately to have the card blocked or block the card using the blocking emergency number on the short code 116 116. You should also report it to the police. If you have also entered your classifieds login details, you should change them immediately.
Related to the topic: Criminals lurk on classified advertising platforms like eBay and pretend to want to buy or sell items.
Source: State and federal police crime prevention (ProPK)
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