Scammers are now sending fake PayID emails to trick people who are selling items via online platforms like Marketplace or Gumtree. Their process works by first contacting the seller about the item for sale, they then tell the seller that they are unable to meet in person to pick it up and that their relative or friend will meet them instead.
The scammer then asks to pay for the item using PayID and will send a fake PayID email to the seller. The fake email shows an issue receiving the payment as PayID limits exist on non-business accounts.
The scammer will then convince the seller to transfer funds to increase their PayID limit so they can receive the payment. As soon as this is done, they are promised they will receive a refund and the buyer’s payment. Instead, this doesn't happen and the unsuspecting seller is tricked into paying money to the scammers.
Scammers can also ask for payment methods like pre-loaded gift cards, bank or international funds transfers, and cryptocurrency, making it harder to recover funds. The ACCC says to use PayPal or credit cards to receive payment when you're selling things.
Avoid being scammed:
Use common sense and slow down when buying and selling something online, and consider whether a sale is too good to be true.
Keep communication and transactions within a secure platform.
What to do if you are scammed:
Contact your bank or financial institution as soon as possible.
Contact the platform on which you were scammed, and inform them of the circumstances.
Share your experience with friends and family. Although it can be embarrassing they can often offer support and you can help protect them from scams.
If you have any questions or need extra support, we're here to help you anytime in any language. Simply start a chat with us via the home screen of the Sonder app to connect to our team of qualified, caring health professionals.
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All content is created and published for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional.