Facebook Marketplace Scams: Don't fall for these
Are you a regular user of Facebook Marketplace? If so, beware of the lurking scams on facebook marketplace that could potentially cost you time, money, and your personal information.
Lloyds Bank shared data showing a 75% year-on-year rise in Facebook Marketplace scams, with the majority of online shopping scams now starting on Facebook and Instagram.
In this insight, we delve into the world of scams on Facebook Marketplace, shedding light on the tactics used by fraudsters and how you can protect yourself.
At a glance
- Where most scams start
- Facebook & Instagram
- Golden rule
- Keep it on-platform
- If you have been scammed
- Report to your bank & Action Fraud
- Buyer protection
- Only via Facebook Checkout
If you have already been caught by one of these, this builds the recovery sequence for your situation rather than leaving you to work out who to ring first.
🛡️ Build your recovery plan
Tick what applies to you. The order below is deliberate — most of these organisations will ask for your Action Fraud reference number, so doing it in this sequence saves you making the same call twice.
Nothing ticked yet — the steps below are the ones that apply to everyone. Tick a box above to add the rest.
- 1
Report it to Action Fraud and get your crime reference number
Action Fraud — the national reporting centre for fraud
- Onlinereportfraud.police.uk
- Phone0300 123 2040
Do this second, and do it before you contact anyone else. Almost every organisation in this list — lenders, credit reference agencies, debt collectors — will ask for the crime reference number Action Fraud gives you, and without it you end up making the same call twice. It also creates the official record you'll rely on if you have to dispute anything later. Expect an update within 28 working days, though that's about the investigation, not about clearing your name; that part is on you and starts now.
Have ready: What happened and roughly when · Any account or reference numbers involved
- 2
Get all three credit reports and read every line
Experian, Equifax and TransUnion
- Experian0800 013 8888
- Equifax0800 014 2955
- TransUnion0330 024 7574
All three, not one. Lenders report to different agencies, so a fraudulent account can sit on one file and be invisible on the others — checking a single report is the most common way people miss the second and third account. You're looking for accounts you didn't open, searches you didn't authorise, and addresses linked to your name that you've never lived at. That last one matters more than it sounds: a linked address you don't recognise is often how the fraud was set up in the first place.
Have ready: Your addresses for the last six years
- 3
Add a CIFAS protective registration
CIFAS — the UK fraud prevention service
- Onlinecifas.org.uk
- Phone0330 460 9601
This puts a warning flag against your name in the National Fraud Database, so member organisations run extra identity checks before granting credit in your name. It costs £30 and lasts two years. It does not affect your credit score, and it doesn't touch accounts you already hold — but it will make your own applications slower, which is the trade-off. If someone has your details, that's usually a trade worth making. Note that not every application is checked against the database, so treat it as a strong deterrent rather than a lock.
- 4
Check you're on the electoral register at the right address
Your local council
A quick one that's worth doing while you're here. The electoral roll is one of the main ways lenders confirm you live where you say you do, and being missing from it both weakens your own applications and makes it easier for someone to claim your identity elsewhere.
- 5
Escalate if you get nowhere
Financial Ombudsman Service, or the ICO
- Financial Ombudsman0800 023 4567
- ICOico.org.uk
If a bank refuses to refund you, or a lender won't remove an entry it has accepted is fraudulent, complain to the firm first and give it eight weeks. After that — or as soon as you get a final response — take it to the Financial Ombudsman. It's free and its decisions bind the firm. Where the argument is specifically about inaccurate data staying on your credit file, the Information Commissioner's Office can also look at it. Both routes cost you nothing.
- 6
Close the door behind you
You
Change passwords on your email account first, not your banking — email is the master key, because it's where password resets land. Turn on two-factor authentication wherever it's offered. If documents were lost or stolen, report the passport or driving licence to the issuing body so it can be flagged. And set a reminder to re-check your credit reports in three months: fraudulent applications sometimes surface long after the original breach.
Contact details and process reflect Action Fraud, CIFAS, the credit reference agencies and National Debtline guidance for England and Wales. Scotland reports fraud through Police Scotland on 101 rather than Action Fraud; the rest of the process is the same. General information, not legal advice — free, independent help is available from National Debtline, Citizens Advice and StepChange.
Key Takeaways
- Facebook Marketplace is not immune to scams, and there are various types of scams that users should be aware of, including paying or communicating outside of Facebook, DPD Pickup Scams, mailing item scams, fake giveaways, phishing scams, counterfeit product listings, non-delivery of items, overpayment scams, identity theft attempts, and fake buyer scams.
- It's important to be able to identify warning signs of potential scams, such as sellers insisting on transactions outside of Facebook's official channels, requests for unconventional payment methods, sellers with little or no history, poor grammar and spelling in listings, and fake giveaways that ask for personal information.
- Users can protect themselves from scams on Facebook Marketplace by researching sellers, meeting in safe public locations, using secure payment methods, communicating and making payments within Facebook's official platform, being cautious about upfront payments, ignoring unsolicited giveaway messages, avoiding sharing sensitive information online, and reporting suspicious activity.
- Engaging in scams on Facebook Marketplace is illegal, and scammers can face legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment. Victims of scams should report the incidents to local authorities to aid in investigations and potentially recover losses.
Scams On Facebook Marketplace
There are many evolving scams on facebook marketplace, the most common are variations of the below techniques:
- Paying or communicating outside of Facebook
- DPD Pickup Scam
- Mailing items
- Fake giveaways
- Phishing scams
- Counterfeit products
- Non-delivery of items
- Overpayment scams
- Identity theft
- Fake buyer scams
Read on to find out how you may easily fall for them, but also how to prevent these scams on you...
Paying or communicating outside of Facebook
How this scam works: Scammers might try to convince you to talk or pay for things outside of Facebook's official channels. They might ask for different payment methods like a bank transfer, gift cards or cryptocurrency, which are hard to trace and get back. By doing this, they want to avoid getting caught or noticed.
How to spot it: Watch out for people who insist on talking or getting paid outside of Facebook's platform. Facebook's Purchase Protection only covers transactions done through Facebook Checkout, so using other ways can put your money in danger. If someone suggests talking through other channels or using strange payment methods, it's a strong sign of a possible scam.
DPD Pickup Scam
How this scam works:
Scammers create fake listings on online marketplaces, such as Facebook Marketplace, offering items for sale. To gain trust and appear genuine, they claim they'll arrange the item's delivery through DPD, a reputable courier service.
They then ask the buyer to make a payment, often in advance, under the pretext of securing the DPD pickup and delivery service. Sometimes they try a double scam of asking for your phone number, and later on you receive a text saying you missed delivery asking you to rearrange by connecting your bank details.
How to spot it:
Be cautious of off-platform communication. Scammers may try to persuade you to communicate or make payments outside of Facebook's official channels. If they insist on these methods, it's a red flag.
Verify DPD arrangements. If a seller claims DPD will handle the delivery, independently verify this with DPD or through official channels. Don't rely solely on the seller's word.
Mailing items
How this scam works: In this scam, scammers ask for money upfront but never send the things they promised. They might give fake tracking info or vanish once they get paid. This leaves buyers with nothing but lost money.
How to spot it: Be careful when dealing with sellers who want money before sending the items. Legit sellers usually ask for payment when you get the stuff or use secure payment systems on Facebook Marketplace. If a seller insists on getting paid upfront and gives unclear or wrong info about shipping, it's best to avoid the deal.
Fake giveaways
How this scam works: Scammers might contact you, saying you've won a prize on Facebook Marketplace. They could ask for personal info or a survey to get your reward. But these giveaways are fake, and scammers use them to steal your info or put harmful software on your device.
How to spot it: Be cautious of unexpected messages or notifications saying you won a prize. Real giveaways on Facebook Marketplace are usually announced officially and don't need your personal info or surveys. Don't click on strange links or give your data to unknown people.
Phishing scams
How this scam works: Phishing scams trick you into revealing your login info or personal data by pretending to be trustworthy. Scammers might send fake messages or make fake login pages that look like Facebook's real site. When you enter your info, they can get into your account and use it for bad things.
How to spot it: Always be careful when sharing sensitive info online. Check the website's URL if it asks for your login info and make sure it matches Facebook's official site. Also, be wary of messages that ask for personal info or logins. If you're unsure, log into your Facebook account directly through the official website or app.
Counterfeit products
How this scam works: Scammers might advertise fake or knock-off products on Facebook Marketplace, often at super low prices. These fake goods are bad quality and could even be dangerous. Buyers who buy them waste money and put themselves at risk.
How to spot it: Be cautious when buying stuff on Facebook Marketplace, especially if it seems too cheap. Check the seller and read reviews from past buyers to see if they're trustworthy. Also, watch out for sellers who don't show real pictures of the item and only use stock photos. If a deal looks too good, it's probably a scam.
Non-delivery of items
How this scam works: Scammers take money for things but never send them. They might make excuses or delay to keep you waiting forever. In the end, you're left with nothing but lost cash.
How to spot it: Be careful when dealing with sellers who always delay or avoid sending things. Real sellers care about delivering quickly and provide correct tracking info. If a seller keeps delaying or doesn't give a valid tracking number, it's best to cancel and ask for a refund.
Overpayment scams
How this scam works: In this scam, scammers pretend to be buyers and offer to pay more than the item's price. They might say the extra money is for shipping or other costs. But they use fake payment methods, like stolen credit cards, and then ask for a refund of the extra cash.
How to spot it: Be cautious when a buyer wants to pay more than the listed price. Legit buyers stick to the agreed price and don't ask for refunds on overpayments. If a buyer insists on paying extra and wants a refund, it's likely a scam. This includes any unexpected payments into your bank account.
Identity theft
How this scam works: Scammers try to steal your identity by tricking you into sharing personal info or login details. They might pretend to be from Facebook Marketplace or use sneaky tactics to gain your trust. With your info, they can do bad stuff in your name. If you think this has already happened, read our guide on what to do when someone is using your name and address fraudulently.
How to spot it: Protect your personal info and watch out for requests for sensitive data from strangers, such as phone number or national insurance numbers. Facebook Marketplace won't ask for your login info or personal data outside of their official platform. If you get strange messages or requests, report them to Facebook and don't share any personal info.
Fake buyer scams
How this scam works: Scammers pretend to be interested buyers and ask for more info or pictures of an item. But once the seller shares the info, the scammer disappears without buying anything.
How to spot it: Be cautious when dealing with potential buyers who act interested but keep stalling. Real buyers either buy or have a good reason for not buying. If a buyer keeps asking for more info without committing, it's likely a scam.
Popular scams on Facebook Marketplace
With the increasing popularity of online marketplaces, scammers have found a fertile ground to exploit unsuspecting users. From fake listings for popular products at ridiculously low prices to requests for upfront payments with no intention of delivering the item, scams on Facebook Marketplace take various forms.
One common scam involves counterfeit products. Scammers create listings for items such as designer handbags, electronics, or high-end fashion items at unbelievably low prices.
These listings often feature stolen product images and descriptions copied from legitimate websites. Unsuspecting buyers are lured by the incredible deals and end up purchasing counterfeit goods or receiving nothing at all.
Another prevalent scam on Facebook Marketplace is the advance payment scam. Scammers pose as legitimate sellers, offering desirable items at reasonable prices.
However, they insist on receiving payment in advance, often through wire transfers or unconventional methods, such as gift cards. Once the payment is made, the scammer disappears without delivering the promised item, leaving the buyer empty-handed and out of pocket.
How to identify scams on Facebook Marketplace
To protect yourself from scams on Facebook Marketplace, it's crucial to be able to identify the warning signs. Here are some red flags to watch out for:
Poor grammar and spelling
Scammers often have limited English proficiency, leading to obvious errors in their listings or messages. If you notice multiple spelling mistakes or poorly constructed sentences, it's a strong indication of a scam.
Requests for Bank transfers or unconventional payment methods
Legitimate sellers on Facebook Marketplace typically accept secure payment methods, such as PayPal or cash on delivery. If a seller insists on a wire transfer or asks for payment through gift cards or cryptocurrency, be extremely cautious.
No history or suspicious account activity
Scammers often create fake accounts with little to no history on Facebook Marketplace. If a seller has no previous transactions or their account was recently created, it's wise to exercise caution before proceeding.
Tips to avoid scams on Facebook Marketplace
While scammers are getting more sophisticated, there are several precautions you can take to minimise the risk of falling victim to scams on Facebook Marketplace. Here are some practical tips to keep in mind:
Research the seller
Before making a purchase, take a few minutes to research the seller's profile. Look for positive reviews and ratings from previous buyers. If the seller has a history of negative feedback or suspicious activity, it's best to avoid them.
Meet in a safe location
When arranging to meet a seller to complete a transaction, choose a safe and public location. Consider meeting at a local police station or a busy shopping mall where there are security cameras and witnesses.
Use secure payment methods
Whenever possible, opt for secure payment methods that offer buyer protection, such as PayPal. Avoid making wire transfers or sending money through unconventional channels, as these methods offer little to no recourse if something goes wrong.
Stick to Facebook's Official Channels:
Communicate and make payments within Facebook's designated platform to stay protected by their Purchase Protection policies.
Beware of Upfront Payments:
Be cautious when sellers demand payment before shipping items. Legitimate sellers typically request payment upon delivery or use secure payment systems.
Don't Fall for Fake Giveaways:
Ignore unsolicited messages claiming you've won a prize on Facebook Marketplace. Genuine giveaways are usually publicised through official channels and don't require personal information.
Watch Out for Phishing Scams:
Be sceptical of messages asking for personal information or login details. Always double-check the website URL to ensure it's the official Facebook site.
Question Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals:
Exercise caution when encountering incredibly low prices, as they may indicate counterfeit products or scams. Research the seller and read reviews.
Avoid Non-Delivery of Items:
Be wary of sellers who repeatedly delay shipping or fail to provide valid tracking information. Legitimate sellers prioritise prompt delivery.
A common variant is the IPS delivery scam, where a fake "missed parcel" text is used to harvest your card details.
Say No to Overpayment Requests:
If a buyer offers to pay more than the listed price and requests a refund, it's likely a scam. Stick to the agreed-upon price.
Protect Your Identity:
Never share personal information or login credentials with strangers. Facebook Marketplace representatives won't ask for this information outside the official platform.
Spot Fake Buyers:
Be cautious of potential buyers who seem interested but repeatedly stall the purchase. Genuine buyers either commit or provide valid reasons for not buying.
Reporting scams on Facebook Marketplace
If you come across a scam on Facebook Marketplace, it's important to report it promptly. By reporting scams, you not only protect yourself but also help prevent others from falling victim to fraudulent activities. To report a scam, follow these steps:
Flag the listing
On the listing page, click on the three-dot menu and select "Report Item." Choose the appropriate reason for the report, such as "Scam or fraud."
Report the seller
If you suspect a seller is engaged in fraudulent activities, you can report their profile by clicking on their name, navigating to their profile page, and selecting "Report" from the menu.
By reporting scams, you contribute to creating a safer online marketplace for everyone.
Legal consequences of Facebook Marketplace scams
Engaging in scams on Facebook Marketplace is not only unethical but also illegal. Scammers can face serious legal consequences for their actions, including fines and imprisonment.
Law enforcement agencies are actively working to identify and prosecute individuals involved in fraudulent activities on Facebook Marketplace.
If you have fallen victim to a scam on Facebook Marketplace, it's important to report the incident to your local authorities. Provide them with any relevant information, such as the seller's profile details, communication history, and transaction records.
This can aid in the investigation and potentially help recover your losses.
Protecting your personal information on Facebook Marketplace
When using Facebook Marketplace, it's essential to safeguard your personal information to prevent identity theft or other malicious activities. Here are some tips to protect your information:
Limit the information you share
Be cautious about sharing personal details, such as your home address or phone number, in public conversations on Facebook Marketplace. Save such information for private messages with trusted individuals.
Adjust your privacy settings
Regularly review and update your privacy settings on Facebook to control who can see your posts, profile information, and contact details. Restricting access to your personal information reduces the risk of it falling into the wrong hands.
Use strong and unique passwords
Create strong passwords for your Facebook account and avoid using the same password across multiple platforms. This makes it harder for scammers to gain unauthorised access to your account.
Alternative platforms to consider for buying and selling safely
While Facebook Marketplace is a popular platform for buying and selling, it's not the only option available. If you've had negative experiences or want to explore alternative platforms, here are a few worth considering:
eBay:
With its robust buyer and seller protection policies, eBay offers a safer environment for online transactions. The platform also has a robust feedback system that helps identify trustworthy sellers.
Gumtree:
Gumtree is a classified advertisements platform that allows users to buy and sell items locally. It's important to exercise caution and follow similar safety measures as you would on Facebook Marketplace.
Vinted:
Vinted is a popular UK platform for buying and selling clothing and accessories. It has a built-in buyer protection fee and keeps payment within the platform, which reduces the risk of the off-platform payment scams described above.
As always, keep communication and payment inside the app.
How to safely navigate Facebook Marketplace
Despite the presence of scams, Facebook Marketplace can still be a useful platform for buying and selling if you take the necessary precautions. Here are some final tips to safely navigate Facebook Marketplace:
Trust your instincts
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Use your common sense and intuition when evaluating listings and interacting with sellers.
Ask questions
Don't hesitate to ask the seller detailed questions about the product, its condition, and any relevant information. Legitimate sellers will be happy to provide additional details to ensure a smooth transaction.
Document your interactions
Keep a record of all conversations and transaction details, including receipts, screenshots, and emails. This documentation can be valuable evidence if you encounter any issues later on.
By following these guidelines, you can minimise the risk of falling victim to scams and enjoy a safer experience on Facebook Marketplace.
Facebook Marketplace Scams USA
Facebook Marketplace, a popular platform for buying and selling goods, has unfortunately become a breeding ground for scams in the USA. Scammers often post fake listings for items that don't exist, ask for payment without delivering the promised product, or lure victims into unsafe transactions.
Common scams include counterfeit electronics, ticket fraud, and rental property schemes. To stay safe, buyers and sellers should meet in public places, conduct transactions in cash or through secure payment methods, and avoid sharing personal information.
Being vigilant and cautious is crucial in protecting yourself from Facebook Marketplace scams in the United States.
Conclusion and final thoughts
As the popularity of Facebook Marketplace continues to grow, so does the presence of scams. It's crucial to be aware of the tactics used by fraudsters and take proactive steps to protect yourself.
By staying vigilant, researching sellers, using secure payment methods, and reporting scams, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience on Facebook Marketplace.
Remember, scams on Facebook Marketplace are not only financially damaging but can also compromise your personal information. Take the necessary precautions and consider alternative platforms if you have concerns about your safety.
By equipping yourself with the information shared in this article, you can stay one step ahead of scammers and navigate Facebook Marketplace with confidence. Stay safe, be cautious, and enjoy the convenience of online buying and selling.
Further reading: I got scammed on facebook marketplace, what can I do?
Other scams worth knowing about: the ItonSearch browser scam and the Sheetrim Transport scam.
