Fake ad and classifieds scams

Different types of online fake ad scams, including classifieds, how to report them and what to do if you have been scammed.

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Online scammers often pose as genuine buyers or sellers. They will try to trick you into thinking you are dealing with a genuine contact, but it is actually a scammer.

About fake ad scams

Scammers will offer fake items or services, or answer your advert and pretend they are interested.

They usually post fake ads or reviews on social media platforms, or classified ads on websites or via email.

They can contact you via:

  • Facebook Marketplace
  • eBay
  • Instagram
  • TikTok
  • Gumtree
  • text messages
  • email.

Examples of fake ad scams

Here are some examples of how scammers use fake adverts or make offers that are too good to be true. They might:

  • offer their products or services at a price that is too low
  • make unusual payment requests - to pay through money order, a pre-loaded money card, Bitcoin or wire transfer
  • insist on using PayID as the only way to pay you
  • claim they overpaid for your item and ask for reimbursement.

Advice to protect yourself from fake ad scams

There are different things you can do to protect yourself from fake ad scams online:

  • be wary of ads for products offered at a very low price
  • stop and check you are buying from a real, reputable seller
  • be wary of sellers or buyers who ask you to pay through money order, a pre-loaded money card, Bitcoin or wire transfer
  • only use reputable websites for rental properties and holiday accommodation
  • keep communications within the platform you are using
  • do not send items to buyers until the payment has cleared in your bank account
  • always meet up with a buyer or a seller in a public place.

For more tips on how to protect yourself from online scammers, visit Scamwatch.

If you think you've been scammed by a fake ad

If you think you have been scammed by a fake ad or classifieds scam, you should act fast:

  • call your bank or financial institution immediately and ask them to stop any further transactions
  • change your banking, email and online shopping passwords on your devices.

Report fake ad scams

To help disrupt and follow scam trends, warn others about new scams, and receive advice and support, report your experience to Scamwatch and Consumer Affairs Victoria.

If you wish to report the matter to police, you can do so:

In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000)(opens in a new window).

To find out more about reporting cybercrime visit Report online abuse, cybercrimes, fraud and scams.

Support services for victims of fake ad scams

If you have been affected by a fake ad scam, help is available.

  • Scamwatch
    The National Anti-Scam Centre has set up Scamwatch to support awareness and reporting of scams. For more information, advice and to report different scams.
  • IDCARE
    Help with advice on scams that involve stealing your identity. This free Australian and New Zealand service can help you limit the damage and recover from the scam. Call 1800 595 160.
  • Consumer Affairs Victoria(opens in a new window)
    Advice and information services to support consumers to exercise their rights.

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