Avoid Counterfeit Scams on Vinted and Resale Sites: Key Tips

A recent incident involving a counterfeit product highlights the risks associated with online resale platforms like Vinted. Maheen was excited to purchase a brand-new Dyson Airwrap for £260, significantly below the retail price of £400 to £480. Initially reassured by the seller’s five-star reviews and Vinted’s buyer-protection policy, her excitement turned to dismay when, after just two weeks of use, the device began to emit smoke, indicating a serious safety issue.

Upon contacting Dyson, Maheen learned that her purchase was counterfeit. The company confirmed that the product was unsafe and would not be returned. “I got a letter from Dyson confirming the product was counterfeit. It was unsafe and they wouldn’t return it to me,” Maheen stated, reflecting a troubling trend in online marketplaces.

According to research from the credit reference agency Experian, nearly 37% of Britons have fallen victim to scams while buying or selling on platforms such as Facebook Marketplace and eBay. The issue disproportionately affects younger people, with more than 58% of Gen Z respondents reporting scams, compared to just 16% of those aged over 55. Victims typically incur losses ranging from £51 to £100, while around 13% have reported losing more than £250, and a small fraction faced losses between £501 and £1,000.

The nature of these scams often involves receiving fake or counterfeit products, which was the case for Maheen. Over half of the scam victims surveyed by Experian realized they had been scammed only upon delivery of the item or when it failed to arrive. Certain red flags can indicate a potential scam, including low-resolution photos or images that appear to be taken from other websites. Additionally, sellers may pressure buyers into making off-platform payments, which can further complicate recovery efforts.

To mitigate the risk of being scammed, consumers are advised to conduct thorough reviews of seller profiles and customer feedback before making a purchase. Asking for detailed information about the product, such as a video demonstration, can also help ascertain authenticity. Buyers should utilize secure payment methods and avoid bank transfers, which are harder to trace and recover if issues arise.

In Maheen’s case, she was outside the two-day buyer protection window offered by Vinted. Despite the danger posed by the counterfeit product, she found it challenging to communicate with customer service. “It felt like I was talking to a bot,” she remarked. With assistance from Guardian Money, she was ultimately able to secure a refund.

In response to the growing number of disputes, a Vinted spokesperson emphasized that most transactions on the platform proceed smoothly. They stated, “Our teams work hard to ensure a smooth trading experience for all our Vinted members. When a dispute does occur, we will mediate, working closely with our delivery partners.”

For those who find themselves victims of a scam, there are additional steps to take if initial appeals to the marketplace are unsuccessful. If a debit card was used for the transaction, consumers can request a chargeback from their bank. Credit card users may explore a Section 75 claim, applicable for purchases over £100. If payment was made via bank transfer, recovery may be more complex, but individuals might still be eligible for a refund under new fraud protections.

As online marketplace scams continue to rise, awareness and vigilance remain vital for protecting consumers.