In the last few weeks, a new scam has increasingly appeared. The perpetrators managed to conceal the fraud for weeks. There are now around 20 cases of this type being conducted at the Winsen police station alone.
How does the fraud work?
The perpetrators specifically take advantage of the fact that many online retailers still offer the option of ordering on account as a new customer. Goods of this type are usually offered by fraudsters on sales platforms such as eBay at a lower price. If an order is placed, the injured parties pay the amount in advance to the fraudsters. Processing through a financial service provider offers those affected a certain level of security. The fraudsters use the data of the injured parties to place an order on account with the actual mail order company. The injured parties receive their goods and do not initially suspect anything.
Reminder for ordering despite payment
After several weeks, evil awakens. There is a reminder in the mail because the goods have been delivered but not yet paid for. In these weeks, the perpetrators have long since transferred the money to foreign accounts and the original provider no longer exists. Since the fraudsters received a tracking number for the real order, which they also provide to the financial service provider, seller protection takes effect and the money is paid to the fraudsters.
In most cases, the injured parties got their money back from the financial service provider after filing a complaint. However, the goods delivered are often more expensive than the perpetrators offer. The injured party usually has to pay the difference because the goods have now been used and can no longer be reversed. For example, pet food was often the product on offer.
Be careful with conspicuously cheap bargains!
The police advise you to be very vigilant with all orders that are not placed with known dealers. It is often helpful to take a look at relevant consumer protection portals to get an idea of the reliability of the provider. Particularly cheap offers should also lead to increased vigilance.
Further information on protection against fraud in online trading is also available on the police advice website .
This might also be of interest: Warning about false debt collection letters
Source: Press portal
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