Pay upfront for a deal? Could be a scam

Deposit scams involve scammers asking you to pay upfront – like a deposit – to secure a deal or goods.

Once you pay them, they string you along with excuses and additional costs resulting in you getting scammed. For example, your delivery is delayed or another buyer has emerged that is prepared to pay more than you. Next thing you know, you've paid way more than a small deposit and you're no closer to getting your item.

Red flags to look for

• You're offered a great deal or a limited offer on a high-value item like a car or smartphone - if you pay an upfront fee first
• After you pay, additional costs pop up. First, it’s a ‘tax’, then a ‘courier issue’, then ‘2 more buyers are interested’, etc
• With each payment, they lure you further in until you can’t escape or you've spent far more than you intended

Tips to protect yourself

• Never pay a deposit for an item unless you have seen it in person first
• Always meet in a safe public place to exchange items
• If you have already paid a deposit and are asked to pay more, stop. Report it to your bank and the national bodies like SAFPS or the SAPS Commercial Crime Unit

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