What Are Marketplace Scams?
Marketplace scams involve fraudulent activity on online buying and selling platforms. Scammers pose as legitimate buyers or sellers to deceive victims into sending money, sharing personal information, or completing transactions that result in loss.
These scams commonly occur on online marketplaces, classified ad websites, and social commerce platforms, often exploiting trust between users who have never met in person.
Common Types of Marketplace Scams
Non-Delivery Scams
Victims pay for goods that are never shipped or delivered. Once payment is made, the seller disappears or stops responding to messages.
Fake or Counterfeit Listings
Scammers advertise items that do not exist or are counterfeit, using stolen photos and misleading descriptions to appear legitimate.
Payment Outside the Platform
Buyers or sellers are encouraged to move the transaction off the official marketplace, removing built-in protections and increasing the risk of fraud.
Buyer Overpayment Scams
Fraudulent buyers send fake or excess payments and request refunds, leaving victims responsible when the original payment is reversed.
Impersonation of Trusted Marketplaces
Victims receive fake emails or messages claiming to be from well-known marketplaces, directing them to malicious links or requesting sensitive information.
How We Help
GetReclaim supports individuals affected by marketplace scams by helping them understand how the fraud occurred and organize relevant details. We provide guidance on documenting the incident and reporting it through appropriate channels.
Our role is to provide clarity and structured support after a marketplace scam, helping victims take informed action and avoid further risk.