Marketplace and Shopping
Fake Seller Scam
Fake Seller Scam explained in plain English: what to watch for, what to do, and how to practice safely.
Example message
I can hold the item if you send a deposit by payment app now.
What it is
Fake Seller Scam is a marketplace and shopping scheme where an ordinary message, call, email, or chat is shaped into an urgent request. It is designed to make you act before checking the source.
How it works
The scam usually starts with a believable prompt such as: “I can hold the item if you send a deposit by payment app now.” From there, the person is pushed toward a link, payment, code, document, or conversation before they can verify the request independently.
Red flags
- Payment link outside platform
- Card details to receive money
- Fake screenshot as proof
- Pressure to leave the marketplace
What to do
- Do not use the link, phone number, or payment instruction from the message.
- Avoid upfront deposits to unknown sellers and use protected payment methods.
- If you entered information or sent money, contact your bank or account provider immediately and save screenshots.
If it already happened
- Stop communicating with the sender.
- Do not send more money or codes.
- Contact the real company, bank, platform, or agency through an official channel.
- Save the message, number, email, and screenshots.
Prevention tips
- Save official websites and app links instead of trusting message links.
- Pause when a request adds urgency, secrecy, or an unusual payment step.
- Avoid upfront deposits to unknown sellers and use protected payment methods.
- Practice the related eSafe Academy training before a real message arrives.
Related scam guides
Practice safely
Try the matching training scenario
Every guide ends with practice. Use the eSafe Academy training flow to rehearse the safe response before a real message arrives.