Buying scams

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What are buying scams?

Money transfers

Purchase scams are an increasing type of online fraud. They usually involve victims intentionally transferring money from their Canada bank accounts to a fake app or through bank transfers, believing they are completing a genuine purchase.

Marketing

They promote their fake products through websites, social media channels, cloned authentic sites, or paid ads to attract customers to counterfeit websites.

Discounted prices

They promote these products at discounted prices, convincing victims to pay through bank transfers to lock in the offer. Once the money is sent, the seller vanishes, and no goods or services are delivered.

Ways to recognize purchase scams

How to spot online scams

Popular or hard-to-find products are frequently targeted by online purchase scams. Always ask yourself: Does the offer seem too good to be true? Are you required to pay upfront before receiving the item? Can you verify the seller’s profile or reputation? Are you able to examine the product before making any payment?

Ways to protect yourself against online scams

Purchase scams can affect anyone shopping online. It’s important to learn the warning signs of these scams. Always use a debit or credit card when paying for items. When buying through platforms like Facebook Marketplace, try to meet the seller in person to exchange the item and payment. If a deal appears too good to be true, it probably is.

Where do purchase scams typically occur?

Scammers often target users on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Instagram, and eBay. Always stay vigilant when using these sites and take precautions to safeguard your money. Familiarize yourself with eBay’s buyer protection policies and make sure to use them to help recover your funds if you fall victim to a scam.

FAQs

  • Are purchase scams possible on websites?

    Yes, purchase scams frequently occur through websites. Fraudsters often create fake sites offering products at heavily discounted prices, much lower than competitors. Even if people are unfamiliar with the site, the lure of savings may convince them to take the risk. These websites can appear very authentic, sometimes supported by paid ads on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Pinterest, which further builds trust.

    If you’re considering buying from an unfamiliar website, here are some tips to help determine its legitimacy and avoid purchase scams:

    • Reviews: Check review sites for feedback on the website. If there are few reviews or they seem fake, avoid the site as it could be a scam.
    • Spelling mistakes: Quickly made websites often contain spelling errors or irregularities in the URL.
    • Payment options: Beware if secure payment methods aren’t offered or if you’re asked to pay via bank transfer through email communication—this is a red flag.
    • Contact information: A lack of a physical address, phone number, or email—offering only a contact form—is a sign the site may not be genuine.
    • Secure connection: Look for a padlock icon beside the URL indicating encryption, but remember scammers can fake this, so it shouldn’t be the sole factor in trusting a website.
  • What should I do if I think I’ve been scammed during a purchase?

    If you suspect you’ve been a victim of a purchase scam, the first step is to contact your bank. If the payment hasn’t been processed yet, they might be able to halt it—though this is usually only possible shortly after the payment. It’s always worth making the call. Even if some time has passed since the payment, reach out to your bank. Payments made via debit or credit card might have protection, so ask if this applies to your situation.

    Next, if the purchase was made through platforms like Facebook Marketplace or eBay, report the seller to the platform. This helps prevent the scammer from targeting others.

    Finally, at InterClaim Alliance, we may be able to assist in recovering funds lost through purchase scams. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists.

  • Does my bank hold responsibility if I am scammed in a purchase?

    It’s unlikely that your bank will be held responsible if you fall victim to a purchase scam. However, if the payment was made using a debit or credit card, some protections might apply.

    The bank is only fully liable for fraud if a data breach occurred due to inadequate data security. Purchase scams involve victims willingly sending money after being deceived, which is separate from the bank’s role.

    If you suspect you’ve been scammed, contact your bank immediately. If the payment was recent, they might be able to stop it. Otherwise, they will advise you on the next steps and let you know if they can assist. Depending on the bank and circumstances, you may be eligible to recover your funds, but this is not guaranteed.

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