Experts reveal scammers are outsmarting people on online marketplaces
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In the digital era, online marketplaces have become akin to modern-day bazaars, brimming with promising bargains, rare finds, and convenience.
Yet, this virtual paradise is not without its disadvantages.
Now that the risk of scams is an ever-present shadow over transactions, the threat is even more pronounced.
Research from Finder revealed ten per cent of Australians have been ensnared by schemes while selling their second-hand items online, with each victim losing an average of $560 in just the past year.
Five per cent of respondents were scammed once, and another five per cent were scammed more than once. Around 15 per cent of respondents did not fall prey to scammers.
According to Finder Money Expert Angus Kidman, the figures are worrisome.
‘There's a lot of people doing it tough who are selling unwanted items to make some spare cash,’ he said.
‘But instead of a cash injection, unsuspecting Aussies are falling victim to fraudsters.’
‘No matter what type of stuff you're selling, criminals will try to take advantage of sellers.’
But all is not lost. Kidman said there are red flags to watch out for.
One particular trick involves scammers requesting to pay for goods through PayID and then arranging a ‘relative’ to collect the item.
‘Never divulge personal information and never click on a link sent to you in text or email associated with the sale as it could be a virus or worse,’ Kidman said.
He also warned online sellers to be extra vigilant.
‘If you're selling on a social media platform, click on the potential buyer's profile and see if they look legitimate and have any ratings as a buyer,’ he said.
‘Some swindlers try to convince sellers that they had transferred too much money as payment for the item being sold, and request they transfer the difference back. An overpayment is always a scam.’
‘Accepting cash only on collection in a public place is one way to ensure you don't get scammed,’ he added.
Here are some of Finder’s tips to stay scam-safe:
Scams cost people not only their money but also their time and trust.
In a previous story, a couple bought a trailer on an online marketplace, thinking they found the perfect trailer.
However, they soon realised an online scammer had deceived them. You can read more about the story here.
Have you or someone you know encountered a scam in an online marketplace? What steps did you take to protect yourself? Share them with us in the comments below.
Yet, this virtual paradise is not without its disadvantages.
Now that the risk of scams is an ever-present shadow over transactions, the threat is even more pronounced.
Research from Finder revealed ten per cent of Australians have been ensnared by schemes while selling their second-hand items online, with each victim losing an average of $560 in just the past year.
Five per cent of respondents were scammed once, and another five per cent were scammed more than once. Around 15 per cent of respondents did not fall prey to scammers.
Scammers target online buyers and sellers on online marketplaces. Credit: Shutterstock
According to Finder Money Expert Angus Kidman, the figures are worrisome.
‘There's a lot of people doing it tough who are selling unwanted items to make some spare cash,’ he said.
‘But instead of a cash injection, unsuspecting Aussies are falling victim to fraudsters.’
‘No matter what type of stuff you're selling, criminals will try to take advantage of sellers.’
But all is not lost. Kidman said there are red flags to watch out for.
One particular trick involves scammers requesting to pay for goods through PayID and then arranging a ‘relative’ to collect the item.
‘Never divulge personal information and never click on a link sent to you in text or email associated with the sale as it could be a virus or worse,’ Kidman said.
He also warned online sellers to be extra vigilant.
‘If you're selling on a social media platform, click on the potential buyer's profile and see if they look legitimate and have any ratings as a buyer,’ he said.
‘Some swindlers try to convince sellers that they had transferred too much money as payment for the item being sold, and request they transfer the difference back. An overpayment is always a scam.’
‘Accepting cash only on collection in a public place is one way to ensure you don't get scammed,’ he added.
Here are some of Finder’s tips to stay scam-safe:
- Do not send money to strangers, no matter the situation.
- Opt to pay by credit card as it provides recourse if problems arise.
- Exercise caution with unsolicited emails; legitimate service providers won't ask for personal information or passwords via email.
- Trust your instincts; scammers often use pressure tactics. If unsure, take your time and conduct a quick online search to verify suspicions.
In a previous story, a couple bought a trailer on an online marketplace, thinking they found the perfect trailer.
However, they soon realised an online scammer had deceived them. You can read more about the story here.
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