BBB Warns Public Against Online Scams

The Better Business Bureau is warning the public about an online scam that has recently popped up on sales sites.

Better Business Bureau spokesperson Fred Elsberry said these scams can affect online sellers and buyers.

Elsberry said if you’re selling, a buyer may contact you about a purchase and say they’ll send a cashier’s check or money order.

“They try to get around the site’s usual checkout process,” said Elsberry. “When the payment arrives, it’s actually for an amount greater than what was agreed upon and then they’ll say they made a mistake and ask for the seller to send back the difference over a wire transfer. What happens is the payment they sent you ends up being a fake cashier’s check and now you’ve wired some of it back to them and you’re out that money.”

The BBB also warns against scammers who say their payment was sent as a quote, invisible transfer that won’t show up in your account right away, however, invisible transfer options do not exist on PayPal.

On the opposite side, buyers can be scammed by not receiving the item they paid for.

Elsberry said to be aware of payments that may be fake and on the purchasing side, take advantage of the protection the site offers you.

Other tips to remember when online shopping, always confirm that the buyer has paid for it and that the transaction goes through to your account. Also never accept payments over the set amount.

Lastly, always make exchanges in public places to ensure safety for everyone involved.

For more information on these online scams, visit www.bbb.org.