Purchase scams
This is when someone advertises something for sale that’s fake or doesn’t exist.
How it can happen
You’re online and see an advert for something that looks legitimate – you may have found it yourself or someone you know may have posted or shared it. Click on it and the link takes you to a fake website designed to con you.
Just because the website or social network where you see an advert is legitimate, it doesn’t mean the advert is. Fake adverts could be for anything from clothes to cars, but pay extra care when shopping for high-end items – designer labels, musical equipment, etc.
How you can protect yourself
Always pay by bank card or credit card, or via one of the secure payment methods reputable online retailers and auction sites recommend, as this could give you more protection.
If you can, go and see the item in person first to make sure it exists, especially if it’s something expensive like a car.
Research and read reviews to check the website and seller are genuine.
Always open the website you’re buying from by typing it into your web browser. Never click on links in emails you may get or in adverts on social media.
If a deal seems too good to be true, it almost always is.