This new research is interesting because IE thought that at least half of all the ads on FB Marketplace were scams of some sort, or fencing stolen goods. So many vehicle adverts on FB seem to feature suspiciously cheap cars, which may or may not be stolen, the IFED task force could spend 24 hours a day trying to track down the gangs who are stealing them and selling them, either as whole vehicles or breaking for parts.
In an era when FB likes to police people’s speech and opinions maybe it’s time they policed their own in-house scammers? Here’s the word.
New data published by banking group, Lloyds TSB has revealed that more than a third of Facebook Marketplace ads could be scams.
This shockingly high figure signifies how savvy fraudsters are utilising social media and Facebook Marketplace specifically, to prey on unsuspecting shoppers, who are in search of a deal. Fortunately, Nick Drewe, Retail Expert and founder of online discounts platform, Wethrift has compiled a list of key things that you can be vigilant for when spotting a Facebook Marketplace scammer.
Is the deal too good to be true?
“If a ‘deal’ you see circulating around social media looks too good to be true, that means it probably is. A product or service being advertised on social media for what seems an excessively low price can be a sure indicator of a potential scam. Always trust your gut and use logic for whether a deal is legitimate or not.
Is the seller putting pressure on you?
“Marketplace scammers will often try to create a sense of urgency to pressure you into quickly making a sale. If a seller does seem to be attempting to rush you into a sale, this could be a sure sign of a scam. Instead, take the time to assess whether the seller and the item is genuine, before rushing to secure a deal that feels suspicious.
Is the seller suggesting unusual payment methods?
“If the seller is pressuring you into using payment methods outside of the recommended processes, such as paying via bank transfer, this may be a scam. Always pay for items via PayPal or pay via Messenger, so that your money is protected should the seller turn out to be disingenuous.
Check out the user’s profile
“Always take the time to investigate a seller’s social media profile. An account that contains few photos, or friends, or lacks profile information is an indicator of a fake account that’s been set up with the pure purpose of scamming unsuspecting shoppers. Only purchase items from accounts that appear genuine.
Be wary of fake payment confirmations
“Fraudsters can also scam sellers on Marketplace, and have been known to send fake payment confirmation screenshots in an attempt to trick people into sending items that were never paid for.
“Always cross-reference with your bank account or PayPal to confirm that the money has actually been sent before shipping any items.
Always ask sellers to provide proof of ownership
“Stolen goods are often commonly resold on Facebook Marketplace by criminals. To avoid purchasing stolen goods, especially for high-expense items, always ask the seller to provide proof of ownership, such as a receipt. A seller who fails to provide any form of proof may be attempting to sell stolen goods.
Do not click on suspicious links sent by scammers
“A scammer may attempt a phishing attack to steal your details, often in the form of suspicious links. They may sometimes attempt to trick you into entering personal information, such as by saying that it is needed for courier tracking.
“If a seller sends a suspicious link via message, always air on the side of caution and refrain from clicking on it.
Do not enter verification codes
“Often, scammers will also attempt phishing scams in the form of fake verification codes. Always refuse if a buyer or seller requests personal contact information to send a verification code.
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