Attractive offers on Facebook Marketplace can turn out to be a trap. While a low price often seems like a good deal, the South African police warn that unusually cheap deals, fake payments, and unsafe meeting locations can turn an online transaction into a dangerous or costly experience.
It is important to understand that a low cost does not always mean a good purchase; in some cases, it may be the first sign of fraud. Sellers are at risk because scammers use fake payment confirmations to receive goods without actual payment. Meanwhile, buyers risk losing money after making deposits or prepayments for items that never arrive. In some cases, people responding to online ads have also been lured to isolated places and robbed.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has issued several warnings regarding scams on online marketplaces, including Facebook Marketplace. In August, the Tshwane police alerted consumers about suspicious listings with unnaturally low prices, demands for prepayment, the use of fake proof of payment, and QR codes within fraudulent schemes.
Buying on Facebook Marketplace
Caution should be exercised regarding unusually low prices. While a bargain is not an automatic sign of fraud, an item advertised significantly cheaper than its usual market value should raise questions. SAPS warned about offers whose prices are substantially below the normal market value. Scammers may use low prices to attract potential buyers and then pressure them into making a deposit or payment.
If a seller insists on immediate payment, citing the interest of another buyer, vigilance should be exercised. It is crucial to inspect the item before paying, avoiding deposits, payments through e-wallets, or full payment before confirming the existence of the item and the legitimacy of the seller. When buying more expensive items, the product should be thoroughly inspected before any money is handed over. A seller's refusal to meet a reasonable request for a preliminary inspection may be grounds to abandon the deal.
Even a convincing profile on Marketplace does not guarantee transaction safety. Although Facebook allows users to view profiles and ratings, the platform states that it does not verify whether the people leaving reviews actually purchased the product or used the service.
Be wary of QR codes and suspicious requests. Scammers may send payment links, ask you to scan QR codes, or request personal or banking information. SAPS warns consumers against scanning QR codes just because someone claims they are necessary to receive a refund, complete a transaction, or receive money. Never disclose passwords, PINs, or other confidential information simply to complete a Marketplace deal.
Selling on Facebook Marketplace
One of the biggest risks for sellers is fake proof of payment. A buyer may send a screenshot supposedly confirming a payment, but SAPS warns that electronic proof of payment can be forged. Sellers should independently check their bank account and ensure the funds have arrived before handing over the goods. If the payment does not appear in the account, the item should not be handed over.
Caution should be exercised regarding overpayments. If a buyer agrees to pay more than the stated price and then asks the seller to return the difference, this transaction must be carefully checked. Sellers should also be wary if buyers involve unexpected couriers, payment services, or third parties in what should be a simple transaction.
Protect your home and personal information. Selling large items, such as furniture or appliances, may complicate the collection process, but sellers must carefully consider granting strangers access to their homes. SAPS previously warned sellers about criminals posing as potential buyers and organizing meetings or deliveries in unfamiliar areas.
Choose the Meeting Place Carefully
An online transaction can become dangerous if buyers or sellers are persuaded to meet in secluded places. SAPS warned that people responding to online ads were being lured to hidden areas and robbed. For personal meetings, it is recommended to choose a busy, familiar public place. In appropriate cases, a police station can be considered. Inform a trusted person of your route and, if possible, have someone accompany you. If the conversation partner suddenly insists on changing the meeting place to a more secluded area, the deal should be reconsidered.
Facebook Marketplace Red Flags
You should back away if:
- The price is significantly lower than expected.
- You are pressured into making immediate payment.
- A deposit is required before you see the item.
- The seller refuses to confirm the item.
- The buyer provides only a screenshot as proof of payment.
- You are asked to scan an unexpected QR code.
- You are asked to provide unnecessary banking or personal information.
- The transaction becomes unreasonably complicated.
- The meeting place changes to an isolated area.
- The person's story becomes inconsistent.
- You are not obligated to complete the deal just because you spent time talking to the buyer or seller.
What to Do If You Suspect Fraud
Immediately stop communication if you feel something is wrong and do not send any more money. Save the listing, messages, phone numbers, bank details, payment records, and other evidence related to the transaction. SAPS asks victims to keep this information as it may assist in the investigation. Suspicious activity can also be reported through Facebook Marketplace reporting tools, and suspected crimes should be reported to the police. Backing out of an online purchase can cost much more than the deal itself.