TalkScams Team — educational discussion
Marketplace seller pushes payment outside the platform — warning signs and safety checks
TalkScams Team discussion starter — an educational scam scenario, not a victim account.
What is the scam pattern?
A seller may ask buyers to move from the marketplace's checkout to direct transfers, claiming they will avoid service charges. This can leave buyers without the platform's normal dispute tools.
Warning signs to recognize
1. A seller insists on moving payment to a private wallet or transfer app.
2. The seller's identity and payment protections cannot be verified
How to check or protect yourself
1. Keep payment within the marketplace's protected transaction process.
2. Retain receipts and report suspicious merchants to the marketplace or FTC
Discuss with the community
How would you verify the seller, payment method and return policy before buying?
Original government advisory: https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2025/11/how-avoid-online-shopping-scam-holiday-season