Getting Your Money Back After Online Fraud

If you've suffered losses due to online fraud, you're not alone. With the right help, you may be able to get your money back.

How Online Fraud Works

Purchase fraud is the most common form of fraud involving authorized push payments (app fraud). By 2024, over 131,000 cases had been recorded, resulting in losses of £87 million.

Authorized transfers are bank transfers that are confirmed by the account holder and are typically used for online services. App fraud tricks account holders into authorizing payments themselves. These scams are usually perpetrated by fraudsters operating through online marketplaces or social media.

Whether you're looking to buy a car, electronics like a MacBook or iPhone, furniture, or even a holiday home, be wary of offers that sound too good to be true. Scammers often use fake websites or place bogus ads on reputable sites like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Gumtree.

How to Spot Online Fraud

Detecting online fraud can be difficult. Here are some warning signs to look out for:

Unknown Websites:

Choose reputable shops or e-commerce platforms with strong buyer protection. Be especially cautious with unfamiliar websites. Read online reviews of shops and make sure they use legitimate and secure payment platforms.

Unsafe Payment Methods:

Be extremely suspicious if a seller asks you to use unsafe payment methods such as cash, bank transfers, or PayPal transfers from friends or family. These methods offer virtually no protection for buyers.

Cryptocurrency Payments:

Avoid sellers who request cryptocurrency payments. These transactions are difficult to trace and often irreversible. Be especially careful if an online platform requires cryptocurrency payments.

Pressure Tactics:

Be wary of sellers who pressure you to order quickly by citing limited quantities or other urgent situations. Even if the quantity of goods is genuinely limited, don't risk being scammed.

Common Types of Online Fraud

Facebook Marketplace Fraud

While Facebook Marketplace is a great place to find bargains, it's also a breeding ground for scammers. Compared to registered, reputable stores, these platforms offer less buyer protection. Be suspicious of offers that sound too good to be true, especially if the seller requests a deposit or full prepayment.

Instagram and TikTok Fraud

Scammers can easily create fake profiles on Instagram and TikTok to impersonate legitimate sellers or brands. Beware of profiles that disguise counterfeit or low-quality goods as expensive items.

eBay Fraud

eBay is a popular online marketplace, but fraud can occur there as well. When buying expensive items, always use secure payment methods and check seller ratings. Be wary of sellers who request payments outside the eBay platform to avoid transaction fees. If possible, ask to see the item in person before making larger purchases.

PayPal Fraud

PayPal is widely used for online transactions, but scammers can exploit this by providing false shipping information or faking shipments. Avoid PayPal's "Friends & Family" payment option, as it offers no buyer protection and PayPal provides no assistance in case of problems.

Car Purchase Fraud

Buying a car is a significant investment. Scammers may falsely claim to own a vehicle or greatly exaggerate its condition. Always carefully inspect the vehicle and its history before making any payment.

Vacation Fraud

Scammers may use social media posts and fake travel websites to lure victims with incredibly low prices for flights, rental cars, and vacation rentals. Always verify the authenticity of such offers before making any payment.

Puppy Scam

In puppy scams, the "seller" advertises puppies that don't exist or are in poor condition, often at prices below market value. Victims may be persuaded to pay a deposit or the full amount, but ultimately receive neither a puppy nor one that is in poor health.