Buyer Caution: Scams Surge on Resale Sites Like Vinted

The rise of resale websites like Vinted has led to a surge in counterfeit scams, leaving many buyers frustrated and financially impacted. One such victim, Maheen, purchased a brand-new Dyson Airwrap for the reduced price of £260. Despite the seller’s five-star reviews and the site’s buyer-protection policy, her excitement turned to disappointment when the product malfunctioned. “The wire began to smoke and the product seemed unsafe,” she recalled. Following an inquiry to Dyson, Maheen learned the shocking truth: the Airwrap was counterfeit and dangerous.

Maheen’s experience is not unique. Research by the credit referencing agency Experian indicates that nearly two-fifths, or 37%, of individuals in the UK have encountered scams on online marketplaces, including Vinted, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace. The data highlights a concerning trend, particularly among younger consumers; over half of Gen Z respondents, or 58%, reported being scammed, compared to a mere 16% of those aged over 55.

For many victims, the financial impact can be significant. Almost a quarter of respondents faced losses between £51 and £100, while 13% reported losing more than £250. Some even faced losses exceeding £501 to £1,000. The most frequent scam identified involved receiving fake or counterfeit products, affecting 34% of respondents. Other common scams included requests to process payments off-platform (31%) and items that failed to arrive after payment (22%).

Understanding the common traits of these scams can help buyers avoid pitfalls. Many victims only realise they have been scammed when the product arrives, often finding low-resolution photos or images that appear overly professional. If an item’s price seems too good to be true, it likely is. Furthermore, sellers may pressure potential buyers into making quick purchases and suggest payments outside the secure marketplace framework.

To protect themselves, consumers should conduct thorough checks on sellers, including reading reviews and gathering additional information about the products. Requesting a video of the item can help verify its authenticity. Safe payment methods are essential; buyers are advised to avoid bank transfers and stick to secure platforms.

In Maheen’s case, she discovered that she was outside Vinted’s two-day buyer protection window. Despite her situation, she felt the process of contacting customer service was frustrating. “It felt like I was talking to a bot,” she noted. With assistance from Guardian Money, she eventually managed to recover her funds.

A spokesperson for 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.” They added that when disputes arise, the company acts as a mediator, collaborating with delivery partners and requesting evidence before making a final decision.

If direct appeals to the marketplace yield no results, buyers have additional options. Those who made purchases using debit cards can initiate a chargeback claim with their banks. Credit card users may explore a Section 75 claim if their purchase exceeded £100. For individuals who processed payments via bank transfer, recent changes in fraud protection laws may offer some recourse, albeit with greater complexity.

As online marketplaces continue to grow, awareness of these scams is crucial for consumers. By remaining vigilant and informed, buyers can better safeguard their transactions and enjoy the benefits of resale sites without falling victim to fraud.