Fake Marketplace Buyer Script
A 'buyer' on a marketplace pushes you to an off-platform 'shipping/payment' site that phishes your card or bank details.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Sanitized example messages
Illustrative, sanitized examples. Personal details are replaced with placeholders such as [phone number] and [fake link].
I'll take it! I'll pay through the platform's courier service — just confirm your details here: [fake link]
I've sent the payment, but you need to pay a [amount] release fee first, then you'll get it back.
Can you accept payment via this link? My app isn't working.
What the scammer wants
To move you off the protected platform onto a fake 'payment/courier' page that captures your card or bank details, or to make you pay a bogus 'release fee'.
Red flags in the message
- Buyer pushing an off-platform payment/courier link
- Requests for your card or bank details to 'receive' money
- A 'release fee' you must pay to get paid
- Overpayment and refund requests
A safe response
Keep all payment within the platform's official system. Never enter card or bank details on a link a buyer sends, and never pay a fee to 'receive' a payment.
What not to send
- Card or bank details
- Any 'release fee'
- Off-platform payments
What to do if you already replied
- Contact your bank if you entered details or paid
- Report the buyer to the platform
- Preserve the chat and links
Evidence to preserve
- Screenshot the full message or call details
- Note the sender number, email, or profile
- Save any links (without clicking) and payment details
- Record dates and times