Buyer Beware: Counterfeit Scams Surge on Resale Platforms

A growing wave of counterfeit scams is affecting users of online resale platforms, with nearly two-fifths of Britons reporting fraud during transactions. This alarming trend was highlighted in the experience of one user, Maheen, who purchased a brand-new Dyson Airwrap for £260 on the resale website Vinted. Initially thrilled by the bargain, Maheen faced a shocking reality when the product malfunctioned shortly after purchase.

After using the Airwrap just four times, Maheen noticed smoke coming from the device’s wire. Concerned for her safety, she contacted Dyson, only to learn that the product was counterfeit and deemed unsafe. “I got a letter from Dyson confirming the product was counterfeit. It was unsafe and they wouldn’t return it to me,” she said. This incident reflects a broader issue as research from credit reference agency Experian reveals that 37% of users on platforms like Vinted, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace have fallen victim to scams.

The data indicates that younger people are particularly susceptible to these scams, with 58% of Gen Z respondents admitting to being scammed, compared to only 16% of individuals over 55 years old. For many, the financial losses are significant, with nearly a quarter of scam victims reporting losses between £51 and £100, and 13% losing over £250. Some unfortunate individuals even faced losses exceeding £501.

Identifying and Avoiding Scams

The most common type of scam reported by victims involves receiving fake or counterfeit products, affecting 34% of respondents. Maheen’s experience aligns with this finding, as many victims only realize they have been scammed once the item is delivered. More than half of victims noted that they were misled by low-resolution images or overly polished photos that seemed too good to be true.

Potential buyers should be vigilant when engaging with sellers. It is advisable to scrutinize seller profiles, read customer reviews, and gather as much information about the product as possible. Asking for additional evidence, such as a video of the item, can help validate its authenticity. Moreover, secure payment methods should always be used, avoiding bank transfers whenever possible. In the unfortunate event of a scam, reporting the incident to the marketplace and seeking a refund is essential.

Maheen learned this the hard way, finding it challenging to communicate with Vinted support after her incident, stating, “It felt like I was talking to a bot.” Although she was outside the two-day buyer protection window, she successfully recovered her funds with assistance from Guardian Money.

A spokesperson for Vinted emphasized the platform’s commitment to user safety: “The vast majority of transactions on Vinted take place without issue, and our teams work hard to ensure a smooth trading experience for all our Vinted members.” In cases of disputes, Vinted mediates between buyers and sellers, often seeking additional information before reaching a final decision.

Steps to Take After a Scam

If direct appeals to the marketplace do not yield results, there are other avenues to pursue. Buyers who used a debit card can request a chargeback from their bank, while those who paid by credit card may be eligible for a Section 75 claim, applicable only for purchases exceeding £100. For payments made via bank transfer, the process can be more complex, but recent fraud refund protections may offer some recourse.

As more people turn to online marketplaces for buying and selling, awareness of these scams is crucial. Users must remain vigilant and informed to navigate these platforms safely.