Vinted users warned to watch out for sneaky new scam targeting online shoppers!
Alert as new scam hits Vinted shoppers
A fresh scam has emerged on apps like Vinted, leaving victims out of pocket after fake transactions go wrong. The North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU) has issued a stark warning after nine local shoppers lost a combined £2,600.
The scam exposed: How crooks trick you
Police reveal the fraud starts with a fake ‘Vinted’ chatbot contacting victims. The scammer then tells you to open a new Revolut account to fix the issue. You’re urged to add money to “activate” this account — but it’s all a ploy.
“Once the victim does so, scammers drain all the funds from the Revolut account,” NEROCU officers warn.
Police advice: Don’t fall for the pressure
- Stop and think before transferring money or sharing personal details.
- No genuine company will rush you or demand instant payment.
- If suspicious, close the app and reopen it from a trusted source.
By doing this, you can confirm if you’re really dealing with an official Vinted account.
How to protect yourself and report fraud
NEROCU works with banks and community groups to teach people how to spot scams. Victims are urged to report fraud quickly so police can crack down hard on scammers. You can report fraud and get advice on the Action Fraud website.
Vinted, launched in 2008, is prized as a go-to spot for buying and selling new or secondhand items online. Their help centre offers tips on staying safe, spotting phishing messages, and recognising official Vinted communications.
Know the signs: Stay one step ahead
- How to spot a scam and what to do if you’re caught out
- Security experts share the top 10 things you must never post online
- 90% of passwords hacked within six hours – how to strengthen yours
Don’t become the next victim – stay alert, check twice, and report suspicious activity immediately.
