The false payment was the most common digital crime in Brazil in 2024, responsible for 46% of online shopping frauds and R$1.61 billion in losses, according to a market survey conducted by OLX, the country's largest used product classifieds marketplace.
Also known as the Approved Purchase scam, it occurs when the criminal impersonates the buyer and sends, via email or messaging app, a false deposit slip, making the victim believe that the amount related to the transaction has been paid. With the item in hand, the scammer stops responding, and as soon as the seller realizes the loss, there is no way to reverse the situation.
"To prevent this type of fraud, we recommend that the item be delivered only after the deposit has been confirmed in the bank account or digital wallet. In the case of OLX, we offer OLX Guarantee, a 100% online and free service that allows the transaction to be completed directly through the platform, providing more security for both the buyer and the seller. With it, it is possible to sell installment products, without the need to hire a delivery service outside the platform, and receive the payment in full within 48 hours after delivery confirmation," explains Camila Braga, OLX Group product manager.
Pay attention to the following signs:
- Pressure to send the item as quickly as possible. Urgency is a tool frequently used by fraudsters, as it requires quick responses, leaving no time for reflection;
- Requesting unnecessary additional information, such as photos of documents like ID, driver's license, bank details, or even credit card, claiming it is a security step of the website;
- Additional payment requirement, whether for product delivery, order cancellation, or even for receiving the amount in the account. This is just another tactic to make the scam even more advantageous.
In case of suspected fraud, immediately halt the transaction and use the reporting channels available on the platforms. Currently, most of them have buttons that can be pressed at any time. In the case of OLX, for example, there are buttons available both in the ads and in the chat. "Registering suspicious activities helps create a more trustworthy and secure digital environment not only for those who report them but for all users," reinforces Camila.
