Beware the Phantom Address New Facebook Marketplace Scam Targeting Aussie Buyers.
Aussies eager to snag a bargain on Facebook Marketplace are being warned about a new scam that’s leaving buyers empty handed and out of pocket. This insidious scheme preys on the excitement of finding a great deal, leaving victims feeling frustrated and cheated.
The scam works by luring buyers in with attractive listings. Once the buyer expresses interest, the “seller” often requests a deposit to secure the item. This is where the sting comes in. After receiving the deposit, the scammer provides a false address for collection, sending the buyer on a frustrating and ultimately fruitless wild goose chase.
Imagine driving across town, excited to pick up your new find, only to arrive at an address that doesn’t exist, is completely unrelated to the item, or leads to a bewildered homeowner who has no idea what you’re talking about. This is the reality for victims of this emerging Facebook Marketplace scam.
How the Scam Works:
- Attractive Listing: Scammers post enticing listings with prices that seem too good to be true.
- Deposit Request: They insist on a deposit to “hold” the item and prevent others from purchasing it.
- False Address: After receiving the deposit, they provide a fake or misleading address for collection.
- Disappearance: Once the buyer realizes the address is bogus, the scammer becomes unresponsive and disappears.
Protect Yourself From Becoming a Victim:
Protecting yourself from this scam requires vigilance and a healthy dose of skepticism. Here are some tips to help you avoid falling prey:
- Be Wary of Deposits: Exercise caution when asked to pay a deposit, especially before seeing the item in person.
- Verify the Address: Use online mapping tools to confirm the address provided exists and appears legitimate. Cross-reference it with public records if possible.
- Meet in a Public Place: Whenever possible, arrange to meet the seller in a public place, like a well-lit shopping center or police station.
- Inspect the Item Thoroughly: Always inspect the item thoroughly before handing over any money.
- Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, trust your instincts and walk away from the deal.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Report any suspicious listings or seller behavior to Facebook Marketplace immediately.
- Avoid Sending Money Via Unsecure Methods: Opt for secure payment methods like PayPal Goods and Services, which offer some buyer protection. Avoid using methods like direct bank transfer or gift cards, as these are often untraceable.
What to Do if You’ve Been Scammed:
If you suspect you’ve been a victim of this scam, take these steps:
- Report to Facebook Marketplace: Report the seller and the listing to Facebook Marketplace immediately.
- Contact Your Bank: Contact your bank or financial institution to report the scam and see if you can recover any funds.
- Report to Scamwatch: Report the scam to Scamwatch, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) website, to help them track and combat scams.
- File a Police Report: Consider filing a police report, especially if you have lost a significant amount of money.
By staying informed and practicing caution, you can protect yourself from this emerging Facebook Marketplace scam and enjoy a safer online shopping experience. Remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.