Purchase scams
When fake or non-existent items are advertised for sale.
How it could happen to you
- You see an advert online for something that looks legitimate, but the link takes you to a bogus website. You may have even found the advert after someone you know has posted it
- Fake adverts can still be found on legitimate buying and selling websites. Be careful when shopping online for clothes, designer items, vehicles, and gym or music equipment
How to protect yourself
- Always pay by debit or credit card, or the secure payment method recommended by reputable online retailers and auction sites, as this could give you more protection
- Never agree to buying vouchers or expensive items such as jewellery or gold for someone as a way to pay for something else
- If you can, view the item in person first to make sure it exists, especially if it’s a large purchase, such as a car
- Research and read reviews to check the site and the seller are genuine
- Always open the website you’re buying from by typing it into your web browser. Be wary of clicking on links in unsolicited emails or on social media
- If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is
What does it look like?
We've written a story that shows what a purchase scam might look like. It describes common tactics we know scammers use, based on insights from our fraud and scams team.
Types of scams to watch out for
These are among the most common tricks currently used by scammers but they constantly come up with new ways to contact you, so be vigilant.
Impersonation scams
When someone pretends to be the police, a bank, a friend or business, to convince you to send them money.
Investment scams
When you’re invited to invest in things that are worthless, or don’t exist.
Purchase scams
When fake or non-existent items are advertised for sale.
Advance fee scams
When fake companies ask for an upfront fee and then don’t provide the service you’ve paid for.
Invoice scams
When account details on an invoice are changed, or emails are intercepted, so the money is wrongly paid into the scammer’s account.
Romance scams
When someone pretends to be interested in a romantic relationship with you. They gain your trust and then ask for money.
Pension scams
A scammer says they can make you money, and convinces you take a lump sum out of your pension – then steals it.
Doorstop scams
A rogue trader knocks on your door and pretends your house needs work – then overcharges you for it and often doesn't finish the job.
Bereavement scams
A scammer contacts you after someone has died, and says you owe money to pay off a debt or access a payout.
Phishing, smishing, and vishing
You receive an email, text message, or call claiming to be from a well-known company or organisation such as a bank or the police.
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