Fake Interac e-Transfer emails
The scammer sends an email that looks like it’s from Interac or your bank, saying the payment is “pending” or that you need to click a link to accept it. The link leads to a fake bank login page. Real e-Transfers can be checked by logging in to your banking app yourself, not through a link. Never enter your banking password from an email link.
Overpayment and “refund the difference”
A buyer “accidentally” sends too much and asks you to send the extra back. The original payment is fake or later reversed, and you lose what you sent. Never refund an overpayment; cancel the sale instead.
“Let’s talk on WhatsApp” or “pay me outside the app”
On Poshmark, eBay and Depop, you’re only protected if the sale and payment go through the platform. A buyer who wants to move to text messages or pay another way is usually trying to get round that protection.
Verification codes
A “buyer” asks you to read out a code sent to your phone “to prove you’re real”. That code lets them take over your account or set up a new one in your name. Never share a code sent to you.
Courier and shipping scams
The buyer says they’ll send a courier and asks you to pay a fee through a link. The link is fake. On the apps, use the platform’s own shipping; locally, ask the buyer to collect in person.
Meeting buyers safely
- Meet in a busy public place, or have someone with you at home.
- Many police stations have a safe exchange spot in their car park or lobby.
- For cash, count it before handing over the item.
If you’ve been scammed
Contact your bank straight away, report the buyer to the platform, and report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (1-888-495-8501) and your local police.