How to Stay Safe on Carousell
While Carousell works continuously to detect and prevent scams, staying aware is the first step to a secure transaction. This guide covers the key steps you can take to protect yourself when you buy or sell.
Key Steps for a Secure Transaction
1. Keep all communication on Carousell
Scammers often try to move the conversation to other chat platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber, or LINE to avoid our detection systems. If a user insists on switching apps, it's a red flag. A reputable seller will respect your preference to stay on Carousell.
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2. Never share personal or payment information
Be cautious of anyone asking for your email address, phone number, or payment details like bank account numbers or one-time passwords (OTPs). An honest buyer or seller will never need this information outside of the app. All necessary transaction details for a legit business deal are available directly within the Carousell platform. You can check your order details on your Profile page under 'My Purchases' or 'My Sales'.
What to do:
3. Watch for common e-commerce scam signs
Trust your instincts. Be wary of:
- Deals that seem too good to be true
- Requests for large upfront payments or deposits
- Buyers who seem overly rushed or create a false sense of urgency
If you're unsure, take a moment to verify the listing's details or check with someone you trust.
4. Watch Out for Fake Links and Phishing Attempts
Phishing is a common scam where fraudsters impersonate Carousell or other trusted companies to trick you into revealing your personal and financial details. They send fake emails or messages with links to fraudulent websites designed to steal your login or financial details. Always inspect the sender's email address and the website URL before clicking.
Learn more about how to stay safe from phishing scams here.
5. Use Carousell's secure features where available
We encourage using built-in secure payment options where this feature is offered, such as the 'Buy' button with Buyer Protection. This feature helps protect your payment until you confirm you've received the item as described. For meet-ups, always choose a safe, public place and inspect the item thoroughly before completing the transaction.
What to do:
Learn more about secure payments with Buyer Protection in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Malaysia.
6. Report anything suspicious
If a user or a listing feels off, report it to us immediately. Your report is anonymous and helps us take action against fraudulent users, protecting the entire community of trusted sellers and buyers.
This content is based on the Carousell 2025 Regional Scam Trends Report.
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Last updated: 28 May 2026