Fraudsters targeting online marketplace users

People who looking for bargains on online marketplaces have been urged to be vigilant for possible fraud.

According to Barclays, 38% of people have either fallen victim to or know someone who’s been targeted by an online marketplace scam.

Figures also showed that of all the scam claims made so far this year, 49% originated on an online or social media marketplace.

That’s 6% more than it was last year.

Tech firms urged to act

Barclays has now urged technology companies to do more to protect people against fraud.

Figures suggest this would be a popular move with the wider public.

In fact, figures showed that:

• more than three-quarters think tech firms should do more to prevent scams taking place on their platforms
• nearly two-thirds think tech firms should reimburse scam victims

Kirsty Adams, fraud and scams expert at Barclays, said: “Online marketplaces are a great way to re-home unwanted items or to find sought-after goods at a discount.

“But they require a level of trust between buyer and seller that scammers are sadly exploiting.

“We urge people to take their time when making purchases and to remember the timeless mantra - ‘if it looks too good to be true, it probably is’.”

Younger generations embrace online marketplaces

Younger people are particularly likely to use online marketplaces to both bag bargains and sell unwanted items - and could therefore be attractive targets for possible scammers.

In fact, nearly one in three 18 to 34-year-olds said they shop on these platforms, compared with less than one in five over-55s.

Nearly three-quarters of scam reports this year made by customers aged 20 and under started on online or social media marketplaces.

That compares with less than half among 51 to 60-year-olds.

Staying safe online

For more tips on how to stay safe from fraudsters, read our blog on how to spot a scam and check out our guide on outsmarting online scammers.

Remember the rule of thumb that if something seems too good to be true, then it probably is.
 
So always take a moment to think before clicking on links or sharing information, and don’t let yourself be pressured into a quick decision.

Legitimate organisations won’t rush or panic you and will always let you say no.