Nasty classified ad fraud: Criminals repeatedly rip off users with fake profiles, fake payment confirmations or fake payment platforms.

Our cooperation partner Watchlist-Internet gives you tips on buying and selling safely.

Tips when you sell

  • Always communicate via the platform’s messaging portal
  • Avoid sales abroad
  • Never transfer money, even if you are supposed to get it back or if it is being managed through a “reputable” intermediary
  • Check payment confirmations carefully and always check incoming payments in your bank account
  • Have the goods picked up and receive money in cash
  • View the profile of the interested person

Tips when you buy

  • Always communicate via the platform’s messaging portal
  • Collect the goods yourself and pay in cash
  • Do not pay via payment services such as Western Union
  • Do not pay using PayPal's Send Money to Friends feature
  • Do not pay with voucher cards, Bitcoins or paysafecards
  • Do not get involved in a transaction through trustees or shipping companies
  • Do not submit copies of ID
  • View the seller's profile

Recognize dubious buyers and sellers

  • Communication does not take place via the platform's messaging portal: criminals shift communication to WhatsApp, SMS or telephone in order to circumvent the platforms' security mechanisms.
  • Abroad: The goods cannot be picked up in person or you should transfer them abroad.
  • Organize the shipping and payment of the product using services that were previously unknown to you: e.g. B. via courier services from DHL or the post office, unknown shipping companies or brokerage and payment service providers.
  • Criminals send you a link to supposed payment service providers and courier services: Only use payment options that you know and do not allow yourself to be put under pressure or persuaded to make an unknown purchase.

source

Watchlist Internet

Also read: Classifieds: Enough fraud !


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