If you’ve found a buyer for something you’re selling online, like a car or a bag, be cautious of scammers who send counterfeit bank receipts, cautioned the police.
Abu Dhabi Police issued a warning on Friday regarding a scam targeting online sellers. These deceptive buyers often forward ‘receipts’, falsely claiming they’ve transferred the money, when in reality, no payment has been made.
Describing the scheme, Col Muslim Muhammad Al Amari, director of the Criminal Security Sector, explained that the fraud commences when a scammer identifies an unsuspecting seller offering an item for sale online, typically on social media.
Scammers Exploit Online Transactions with Counterfeit Bank Receipts, Abu Dhabi Police Warns Sellers
“After agreeing to transaction terms, the ‘buyer’ dispatches counterfeit bank receipts, stating that the transfer process will take several days. With this alleged ‘proof’ of payment, the scammer then requests the items,” added Col Al Amari.
Those deceived by the scam relinquish the items to the bogus buyer, only to later discover the receipt was fraudulent and no money was transferred.
Col Al Amari advised sellers not to hand over items until payment is received. “Take no action until the payment is confirmed.”
Victims of such scams are urged to promptly report them to the police. Residents in Abu Dhabi can contact the police via the toll-free hotline 8002626 (AMAN2626), through SMS (2828), or by emailing aman@adpolice.gov ae. Complainants may also utilise the police’s official app.
