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Scam goods sold online or on social media

There are unfortunately a lot of fraudsters selling fake goods online and on social media.

If you've been tricked by a fraudster into sending them money, please get in touch with us by tapping Help on the bottom right of the app, search for "Reporting a scam", tap the help article and then "Report Fraud" and complete the steps in the form.

How purchase scams work

Fraudsters are experts at making things look real. They often use stolen and/or AI generated photos and too good to be true prices to rush you into a decision.

Some common examples are:

  • High-tech gear: Discounted games consoles or the latest phones.

  • In-demand tickets: Sold-out concerts or sporting events.

  • Luxury for less: Designer clothes or handbags at massive discounts.

  • Big life moments: Fake holiday rentals or pets that don't exist.

Five red flags to watch for 🚩

  1. Pressure to pay by bank transfer: Scammers hate official payment channels. They’ll try to move you off-platform (from sites eBay or Vinted) to pay via bank transfer instead. Once that money is sent, it’s very hard to get back.

  2. The "too good" price: If a brand-new games console is half the market price, it’s likely a trap.

  3. Wrong account names: Be wary if you’re asked to pay an account that doesn't match the seller’s name.

  4. Excuses, excuses: If a seller won't let you see an item in person or needs a deposit to hold it, walk away.

  5. Brand-new profiles: Check the seller’s history. Scammers often use profiles created just days or hours ago or have just joined a selling group.

How to stay safe

  • Use protected payments: Use your card or services like PayPal Goods & Services. These offer protection that bank transfers and cash payments don't.

  • Stick to the app: If you found the item on eBay, Depop or Vinted, finish the transaction there. Never follow a link in an email to pay on a different site.

  • Check the V5C: If you’re buying a car, always ask to see the logbook (V5C) before any money changes hands.

  • If your gut feeling says something is off, stop: A legitimate seller will never mind you taking five minutes to double-check the details.

For more information about how to keep yourself safe from fraud, head to monzo.com/fraud..

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