Users of the popular online marketplace Vinted have been put on alert following reports of a new scam that is targeting unsuspecting online shoppers. The warning comes from officers at the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU), who have issued guidance after nine victims in the North East of England reported losses totalling £2,600.
The scam involves victims being contacted by a fake ‘Vinted’ chatbot, according to police. Once in communication with the fraudulent bot, victims are instructed to open a new Revolut account to supposedly resolve a transaction issue. They are then directed to add money to activate the account so that the previous amount can be retrieved. However, once funds are deposited, scammers swiftly empty the Revolut account, leaving victims out of pocket.
NEROCU officers have emphasized the importance of taking time to assess any situation that involves transferring money or sharing personal information. They stress that no genuine site or agency will pressure users to make hasty decisions or transfer money. If in doubt, users are advised to close the site or app and reopen it from a trusted source to ensure they are speaking to a legitimate person.
Local NEROCU officers collaborate with banks and community groups to educate both staff and the public on recognizing the signs of fraud and how to report it. Victims are encouraged to report incidents as soon as possible so that law enforcement and partners can work together to dismantle fraudulent operations. Further assistance and advice, as well as reporting of fraud, can be accessed via the Action Fraud website.
Founded in 2008, Vinted has become a well-known online marketplace for buying, selling, and exchanging new or secondhand items. The platform’s help center provides guidance on staying safe and protecting personal data. Vinted has also shared tips on spotting phishing emails and messages, along with examples of how official Vinted messages appear to help users discern between legitimate and fraudulent communications.
As online scams continue to evolve, users are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from falling victim to fraudulent schemes. With awareness and caution, users can help safeguard their finances and personal information while enjoying the benefits of online shopping and selling.
