Common Scam Types on Carousell
At Carousell, we care about keeping your online transactions safe. Learn about the common tactics swindlers use and how to avoid them.
While most deals go smoothly, being familiar with the methods used by different types of cybercriminals is key to avoiding them.
Stay Updated on the Latest Alerts: Scammer tactics change often. For the most recent information, we encourage you to regularly check our official Scam Advisories page.
Here are the most common scam types we've observed.
Phishing scams
This is the most prevalent scam type. Scammers often pretend to be a buyer or Carousell support staff.
- Fake Buyer Phishing: A scammer pretends to buy your item and sends you a fake payment confirmation link or QR code. This link leads to a fraudulent website that asks for your banking or card details to "receive" payment, but instead steals your information.
- Fake Support Phishing: An imposter may contact you pretending to be from Carousell, asking for your account details to "verify" your identity or resolve a non-existent issue. Remember, an official Carousell employee will never ask for your password or OTPs.
Remember: Carousell will never ask for your password, OTPs, or full credit card details outside of our secure platform. Carousell blocks messages with links, email addresses and QR codes to protect users from phishing risks.
Learn more on how to stay safe from phishing scams here.
E-commerce Scams
These scams involve fraudulent listings or buyers. Common tactics include:
- Non-delivery of goods: A seller lists a high-demand item, collects payment, and then never ships the product.
- Payment before viewing: A seller insists on a deposit or full payment before you can inspect a high-value item like a rental property or a vehicle.
Learn more on how to stay safe from gadget scams here.
Counterfeit Goods
Scammers list fake or replica items, passing them off as authentic. Always be cautious of deals that are significantly below market price, as an authorized dealer will price items fairly.
Learn more about our Counterfeit Policy here.
Event Ticket Fraud
Scammers sell fake or invalid tickets to popular concerts, sporting events, or other attractions. They often create a sense of urgency due to the event's popularity.
Learn more on how to spot the signs of fake concert ticket listings.
This content is based on the Carousell 2024 Regional Scam Trends Report.
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Last updated: 30 July 2025