Canton of Geneva: Beware of scams on online marketplaces
Christmas is just around the corner and you are desperately looking for a suitable gift for your loved ones.
In the heat of the moment, keep an eye out for bargains! This often hides a scam.
How do scammers work?
While browsing an online used items store, you may come across the ideal gift for your mother. A beautiful Limoges porcelain vase. You contact the advertiser and express your interest in this property. The seller tells you that you have to pay him in advance and that there will be transport and customs fees. He also tells you that the item is rare and that another customer is interested in it. You send him the amount of money in an unsecured way via bank transfer. On Christmas Eve, your mother will not receive a present from you. The fake seller never sent you the goods and never responded to your inquiries.
The right reflex
You can protect yourself from this type of scam by preferring face-to-face meetings whenever possible. you should try to contact the seller by phone or SMS. If the line GOES down, it’s probably a scam. Scammers, who often operate from abroad, use Swiss numbers to communicate via messaging platforms such as Whatsapp or Messenger. Check how old the seller’s account is. Accounts that have only recently been set up should be viewed with caution. If the seller asks you to pay additional shipping, insurance, or customs fees, or requests payment using an unusual service, you should be suspicious. Sometimes crooks try to get hold of credit card data. Do not open an account on an unfamiliar website and do not enter any bank details. Above all, you should never send a copy of your ID to a stranger. He could use your identity for more scams.
What do you have to do if you are a victim?
- If you entered this information on a malicious website, contact your bank to block the transaction, request a payment reminder, or have your card blocked.
- Contact the platform to report the scam and have the account suspended.
- Gather as much information as possible about the scam (emails, addresses, IBAN accounts, etc.) and file a criminal complaint. Let the police know if you gave the scammers a copy of your ID.
- Finally… buy flowers from the nearest florist to give to your mother and have a Merry Christmas!
Source: Kapo Geneva
Image source: Kapo Geneva
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