Marketplace Scam (OLX/Quikr/Facebook Marketplace)
Classifieds platforms like OLX, Quikr, and Facebook Marketplace connect individual buyers and sellers directly with no built-in payment protection or escrow by default — scammers exploit this by asking for an advance 'booking' payment before you've seen the item in person, then disappearing.
What Is It
A common variant involves a seller claiming to be 'out of town' (often citing an army/government transfer as a trust-building story), refusing video calls or in-person meetings, and insisting on a courier delivery after advance payment — the item never arrives, and the seller's number becomes unreachable.
When To Use It
Report if: a seller demands advance payment before any in-person meeting or verified video call; the seller has an unusual story to explain why they can't meet; or you've already paid and the seller has gone unresponsive.
Step-by-Step Process
- 1Stop all further payment immediately and save every message, listing screenshot, and payment record.
- 2Try calling the seller's number directly — if unreachable, this confirms the fraud.
- 3File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in with the payment details (UPI ID/account number) and all evidence.
- 4Call 1930 to attempt a fund freeze if the payment was recent.
- 5Report the listing/profile to the platform (OLX, Quikr, Facebook) so it can be taken down and other buyers protected.
Documents Required
- Screenshots of the listing and chat conversation
- Seller's phone number and any name used
- Payment transaction ID and receiving UPI ID/account
- Screenshot of the seller becoming unreachable
Fees
Filing a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in is free.
Processing Time
Fund freeze is most effective within 24-72 hours of payment; full recovery is not guaranteed.
Important Tips
- Never pay in advance for a classifieds item you haven't seen in person or verified via a live video call.
- A seller who refuses any video call and insists on courier-only delivery for a local classifieds listing is a strong red flag.
- Prefer cash-on-inspection meetups in a safe public place for classifieds purchases whenever possible.