How to spot a scam
Scams can happen on any marketplace. Learn the warning signs before you trade.
🚨 Warning signs
Unusually low price
If a price seems too good to be true, compare it with similar items before proceeding.
Unusual payment request
Be cautious of requests for cash transfers, gift cards or international payments.
Pressure to act quickly
Do not let someone rush you into paying before you can check the details.
Moving the conversation off-platform
If someone immediately asks to switch to email, SMS or WhatsApp, consider staying in the app.
New account with little history
Use extra caution when an expensive item is listed by a new account with no activity.
Generic or reused photos
Ask for a current photo of the actual item if the images look like stock photos.
🛡️ Common scams
The fake overseas buyer
Someone claims to be abroad and asks you to ship before their payment has cleared.
Phishing by text or email
A message impersonates a marketplace and asks you to verify your identity or payment through a link.
Fake delivery
A seller provides a fake tracking number or sends an empty parcel or a different item.
Overpayment scam
A buyer claims to have paid too much and asks for a refund before the original payment clears.
✅ What to do if you are targeted
- Report the listing and account on Vintew
- Save messages, screenshots and payment records
- Contact the police or fraud-reporting authority in your country
- In France, file a complaint via pre-plainte-en-ligne.gouv.fr
- In France, report online fraud to PHAROS (French government portal)
- Contact your bank if you have made a payment
- Call 0 805 805 817 (Info Escroqueries, free call in France)
In short
When in doubt, do not pay. Take time to verify the details and report suspicious behavior.