A scammer may pose as a genuine buyer or seller in an attempt to obtain your money or your goods and services. This can occur on fake websites, classified pages or social media sites.

Scammers as sellers: The scammer poses as a genuine seller of goods on common for-sale platforms. Goods often include pets, motorised vehicles and electronic goods. Following payment, the person often ceases all contact and does not supply or exchange your goods.

What to look out for as a buyer

• Product or service is advertised at below market price.
• Payment requested via international money transfer, gift card, cryptocurrency, direct bank transfer or cash deposit.
• Urgent payment requested, prior to arranging delivery.
• Extra costs requested in advance– insurance, freight, taxes etc.
• Inability to inspect the goods in person.

Scammers as buyers: The scammer shows fake interest in your goods and services advertised online and misleads you into believing payment has been made. In some instances, these individuals will provide false records of payment and often request a refund for false overpayments.

What to look out for as a seller

• Scammers claim to have paid more than the agreed price and request a refund of the overpaid amount.
• Payment made through an escrow service or third party payment provider.
• Scammers often claim to be located interstate or overseas.
• Willingness to purchase goods without viewing in person.

How to protect yourself

• When purchasing online, try to do so only through well-known online marketplaces.
• Research the company or seller prior to proceeding with payment.
• Use more secure payments methods from established financial service providers or your credit card.
• Refrain from sending funds upfront. If needing to pay in cash or funds transfer, where possible, purchase in person.

If in doubt, contact BOQ urgently on 1300 55 72 72, visit www.boq.com.au/contact-us for our operating hours.