Online shopping can be convenient and safe, but it is important to stay vigilant.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State urged residents to be extra careful when buying or selling items on online platforms like Facebook Marketplace and other online trading platforms. Criminals are using these platforms to trick people into handing over their money or personal information, and the number of these scams continues to grow.

Scammers often create fake profiles and advertise popular items at prices that seem like a bargain. They may ask buyers to pay a deposit to secure the item, only to disappear once the money has been paid. Others pretend to be buyers and send fake proof of payment or ask sellers to scan QR codes, claiming it is needed to receive payment. These tactics are designed to steal money or gain access to bank accounts.

The following are some of the most common scams found on Facebook Marketplace:

● Counterfeit Items: Fake or imitation products are sold as genuine brands.

● Gift Card Scams: Scammers request payment through gift cards because they are difficult to trace.

● Bait and Switch: Sellers advertise one product but deliver a different or lower-quality item.

● Broken Products: Buyers receive damaged or non-working products.

● Apartment Rental Scams: Fraudsters advertise fake rental properties and request deposits.

● QR Code Scams: Scammers ask victims to scan QR codes, which can lead to theft of money or personal information.

● Car Deposit Scams: Sellers request deposits before the buyer has seen the vehicle.

● Accidental Overpayment Scams: Scammers claim they accidentally paid too much and ask for a refund before the original payment clears.

● Fake Giveaways: Users are promised free prizes in exchange for personal information or payment.

● Fake Accounts: Fraudsters create fake profiles to appear trustworthy.

Before making a purchase or selling an item online, take a few moments to protect yourself:

● Check the seller’s or buyer’s profile and look for reviews or signs that the account is genuine. 

● Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. 

● Never pay a deposit unless you are certain the seller and the item are legitimate. 

● Do not scan a QR code if someone claims it is required for you to receive money. 

● Use secure and trusted payment methods whenever possible.

● Keep a record of your conversations where messages can be traced. 

● If you are meeting someone to buy or sell an item, choose a busy public place and inspect the item before making payment. 

● Don’t rely on screenshots of proof of payment, as these can easily be altered or faked. 

If you believe you have been scammed, stop communicating with the suspect immediately, keep all messages and payment records, and report the matter to your nearest police station without delay. Fraudulent accounts and listings should also be reported to Facebook to help prevent others from becoming victims.

Taking a few simple precautions before sending money or sharing personal information can make all the difference and help keep you from becoming the next victim of online fraud.