Category: Online shopping
Current concern level: Moderate concern
How it works
A scammer posts an attractive product listing online. After payment, shipment keeps getting delayed, tracking is fake, or the seller disappears.
Red flags
- Prices far below normal market value.
- Seller requests payment outside the platform.
- New account with little history and no verified reviews.
- Pressure to pay quickly to “reserve” the item.
What to do
- Use trusted marketplaces and protected payment methods.
- Review seller history and return policies.
- Keep all confirmation emails and screenshots.
What never to do
- Never pay through gift cards, wire transfer, or direct crypto for routine purchases.
- Never move a transaction off-platform to save a small fee.
- Never ignore your instincts when details do not line up.
If money was sent: steps
- Contact your payment provider and request dispute options.
- Report the seller to the marketplace.
- Save order details, tracking links, and chat logs.
- File reports with FTC and IC3 if fraud is suspected.
How to report
- FTC: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
- FBI IC3: https://www.ic3.gov/