How to Avoid Scams
Learn to identify common scams and protect yourself while buying and selling on BuyOrSell24.
Common Types of Scams
Overpayment Scam
Targeting: Sellers
How it works: The buyer sends a check or transfer for more than the asking price, then asks you to refund the difference. The original payment later bounces.
How to avoid:
- Never accept payments for more than the agreed price
- Don't refund money before confirming payment has cleared
- Prefer cash for in-person transactions
Fake Payment Confirmation
Targeting: Sellers
How it works: The scammer sends a fake email or screenshot showing they've paid, hoping you'll send the item before verifying.
How to avoid:
- Always verify payments directly in your bank account or payment app
- Don't trust screenshots or forwarded emails
- Wait for payment to clear before shipping items
Advance Payment Scam
Targeting: Buyers
How it works: Seller asks for payment upfront before you've seen the item, then disappears after receiving money.
How to avoid:
- Never pay before inspecting items in person
- Meet in public places to exchange goods and payment
- Be wary of sellers who refuse to meet in person
Phishing/Account Takeover
Targeting: All Users
How it works: Scammers send fake emails or messages pretending to be BuyOrSell24, asking you to click links or provide login credentials.
How to avoid:
- Never click suspicious links in emails or messages
- Always navigate to BuyOrSell24 directly through your browser
- Never share your password or verification codes
- Enable two-factor authentication if available
Fake Escrow Services
Targeting: Buyers & Sellers
How it works: Scammer suggests using a "trusted" third-party escrow service, which is actually fake and controlled by them.
How to avoid:
- Only use well-known, verified escrow services
- Research any suggested third-party service thoroughly
- Prefer in-person cash transactions when possible
Bait and Switch
Targeting: Buyers
How it works: Seller advertises a high-quality item but delivers a different, inferior product or a counterfeit.
How to avoid:
- Thoroughly inspect items before paying
- Check serial numbers and authenticity markers
- Meet in person to verify the actual product
- Don't accept sealed boxes without inspection
Red Flags to Watch For
Prices significantly below market value
Requests to communicate outside the platform
Pressure to make quick decisions
Unusual payment methods or requests
Poor grammar or generic copy-paste messages
Refusal to meet in person or video call
Requests for personal information (ID, bank details)
Newly created accounts with no history
Stories that tug at emotions or create urgency
Seller claims to be out of the country
Steps to Protect Yourself
Verify the Person You're Dealing With
Check their profile, reviews, and history on the platform. Look for verified badges or active participation in the community.
Communicate Clearly and Document Everything
Keep all communications on the platform. Take screenshots of conversations, listings, and agreements. This creates a record if issues arise.
Meet in Safe, Public Locations
Choose busy, well-lit areas like shopping malls, coffee shops, or police station parking lots. Bring a friend if possible.
Inspect Before You Pay
Never hand over money without thoroughly examining the item. Test electronics, check for damage, verify authenticity, and ensure it matches the listing.
Use Secure Payment Methods
For in-person deals, cash is safest. For online transactions, use payment platforms with buyer protection. Avoid wire transfers and cryptocurrency for unknown sellers.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off, it probably is. Don't let pressure or excitement cloud your judgment. It's okay to walk away from a deal.
What to Do If You've Been Scammed
1. Stop All Communication with the Scammer
Don't send any more money or personal information. Block the scammer on all platforms.
2. Document Everything
Save all messages, emails, transaction receipts, and screenshots. This evidence will be crucial for reporting.
3. Report to BuyOrSell24
Contact us immediately through our contact form with all details and evidence.
4. Report to Your Bank or Payment Provider
If you sent money, contact your bank or payment service immediately to report fraud and attempt to reverse the transaction.
5. File a Police Report
Contact Dubai Police at 901 or visit dubaipolice.gov.ae to file an official report.
6. Warn Others
Share your experience (without personal details) to help prevent others from falling victim to the same scam.
Additional Resources
For more information on staying safe while using BuyOrSell24, check out our comprehensive safety guide.
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