Buyer Beware: Counterfeit Scams on Vinted and Resale Sites Surge

A growing number of consumers are falling victim to counterfeit scams on online resale platforms like Vinted, with a recent case highlighting the risks involved. Maheen, a user of Vinted, purchased a brand-new Dyson Airwrap for £260, a significant discount compared to its retail price of between £400 and £480. Despite the seller’s five-star reviews and the perceived security of Vinted’s buyer protection policy, Maheen discovered after a few uses that the product was unsafe.

“I noticed the wire began to smoke and the product seemed unsafe,” she recalled. Following her concerns, she contacted Dyson, who confirmed that the Airwrap was a counterfeit and deemed unsafe. Maheen’s experience is increasingly common, with research from the credit reference agency Experian revealing that nearly two-fifths (37%) of Britons have faced scams while using online marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Vinted.

The demographics of those affected are telling. Over half (58%) of Generation Z respondents reported having been scammed, while only 16% of individuals over 55 shared similar experiences. For many victims, the financial impact is significant, with approximately 24% of individuals losing between £51 and £100, while 13% reported losses exceeding £250. A small group faced even steeper losses, ranging from £501 to £1,000.

Understanding the Scams

The most prevalent scams involve the sale of fake or counterfeit products, affecting 34% of respondents in Experian’s survey. Other common issues include requests to conduct transactions outside the platform (31%) and items that fail to arrive after payment (22%). The deceptive nature of these scams often leads victims to believe they are purchasing legitimate items until it is too late.

Many victims (51%) reported that they only realized they had been scammed after receiving a product that was either fake or did not arrive at all. The listings may feature low-resolution images or overly polished photos that resemble catalogue images. Additionally, the pricing is often suspiciously low. If potential buyers ask questions, sellers may pressure them into making a quick purchase and suggest off-platform payment methods.

To protect themselves, consumers should carefully review seller profiles and read customer reviews before completing a purchase. Asking for thorough product details, such as a video demonstration, can also be beneficial. It is advisable to utilize secure payment methods and avoid bank transfers. In the event of a scam, victims should report the incident to the marketplace and request a refund, providing screenshots and transaction details as needed.

Maheen found herself outside Vinted’s two-day buyer protection window, despite the product being deemed dangerous. “It was really hard to talk to someone,” she explained, describing her frustration with customer service. With assistance from Guardian Money, she eventually recovered her money.

A spokesperson from Vinted stated, “The vast majority of transactions on Vinted take place without issue, and our teams work hard to ensure a smooth trading experience for all our Vinted members.” The spokesperson added that when disputes arise, Vinted mediates between buyers and sellers, collaborating with delivery partners and requesting additional evidence before making a final decision.

What to Do if You Get Scammed

If an appeal to the marketplace yields no results, there are alternative routes for reclaiming lost funds. For those who paid by debit card, contacting the bank to initiate a chargeback claim is an option. Credit card users might consider a section 75 claim, which is applicable for purchases over £100. In cases where payment was made via bank transfer, recovering funds can be more complex, but recent fraud refund protections could offer some recourse.

As online resale platforms continue to grow in popularity, awareness and vigilance against scams are essential for consumers. Recognizing the signs and understanding the measures that can be taken may help mitigate the risks associated with buying and selling on these platforms.