ComplaintAdda
Fact CheckedLast Updated: 5 July 2026Reviewed By: ComplaintAdda Editorial Team

OLX Scam

OLX scams frequently involve fraudsters posing as army/paramilitary personnel selling goods cheaply, or fake buyers sending phishing 'QR code' payment links. Never pay or scan anything before verifying the other party.

What Is It

Fraud conducted via the OLX classifieds platform, including advance-payment scams for goods never delivered, and reverse scams where a fake 'buyer' tricks a genuine seller into scanning a debit QR code.

When To Use It

Report when you have paid an advance for goods that were never delivered, or when money was debited from your account after scanning a QR code sent by a supposed 'buyer'.

Step-by-Step Process

  1. 1Stop all further payment/communication with the suspected fraudster immediately.
  2. 2Report the listing/profile directly on the OLX app using 'Report this ad'.
  3. 3If money has been debited, call 1930 right away for a possible transaction freeze.
  4. 4File a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in with the seller/buyer's phone number, chat and UPI details.
  5. 5Inform your bank to flag the beneficiary account linked to the fraud.

Documents Required

  • OLX ad link/screenshot
  • Chat conversation with the fraudster
  • Phone number and UPI ID used
  • Bank statement showing the transaction

Fees

Free to report on OLX and on the Cyber Crime Portal.

Processing Time

OLX typically removes reported listings within 24–48 hours; cyber crime investigation takes 30–90 days.

Important Tips

  • A genuine buyer never needs you to scan a QR code — QR codes are only for making payments, not receiving them.
  • Insist on cash-on-delivery or meet in a safe public location for high-value items.
  • Be extra cautious of sellers claiming to be defence/paramilitary personnel offering steep discounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is safer to avoid advance payments entirely and prefer cash-on-delivery or in-person exchange after inspecting the item.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify with the official source before acting.