Marketplace and Shopping
Overpayment Scam
Overpayment Scam explained in plain English: what to watch for, what to do, and how to practice safely.
Example message
I accidentally paid extra. Please send the difference back after you deposit my check.
What it is
Overpayment 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 accidentally paid extra. Please send the difference back after you deposit my check.” 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.
- Wait for funds to fully clear and keep payments inside the platform.
- 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.
- Wait for funds to fully clear and keep payments inside the platform.
- 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.