Online Marketplace Scams

Our research shows that over a quarter of Aussies were the target of a scam as a seller on a marketplace. So how can Securely help?

Online marketplace scams involve scammers pretending to be a legitimate contact with fake websites, ads, or profiles.

These scams occur on common e-commerce platforms used by genuine people, such as eBay, Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace and Carsales. 

Learn how we can help.

They overpay and don't negotiate

Scammers are willing to buy the item at the price or pay even more. Or overpay you and claim you have to refund them. You are asked to refund or forward on the overpaid amount to a specific bank account or through a wire transfer. Often this is to pay for transport or importation fees.

Use Fake Credit cards or bank deposits

Scammers email you falsified or altered receipts or money transfer confirmations, claiming to be from companies such as PayPal, eBay or your bank. They use fake credit card and bank cheques. They insist on using PayPal – they can reverse the money once you send the item.

Limited Profile information

Their profile has no photos and minimal information. They use poor spelling and grammar.

They Disappear when suggesting Pay Ewe

They disappear when you suggest paying through Pay Ewe. "Both parties can feel secure knowing the other is who they say they are because Pay Ewe legally validates identity and tracks the transaction.