Recognise the warning signs before money moves.
Learn how to recognise common warning signs, protect your information and approach private transactions with greater confidence.
Common scam categories
Guidance grouped by the type of private transaction it affects most.
Marketplace scams
Fake listings, requests to pay off-platform and sellers who disappear after payment.
- Be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true.
- Avoid paying by bank transfer or gift card before inspecting an item.
- Keep communication and payment within a traceable, agreed process.
Payment redirection scams
Requests to change bank details or redirect a payment at the last minute.
- Verify any change of payment details directly with the other party by phone.
- Be wary of urgent requests to resend a payment to a new account.
- Check invoices carefully for small changes to account details.
Vehicle sale scams
Sellers requesting a holding deposit before you have inspected the vehicle.
- Inspect a vehicle in person before transferring money where possible.
- Be cautious of sellers who are always unavailable or based interstate.
- Confirm identity and agreed terms before paying any deposit.
Trade and invoice scams
Large upfront deposits, unlicensed operators and invoices that do not match what was agreed.
- Check licensing and ask for references before paying a deposit.
- Record the agreed scope of work and price in writing.
- Be cautious of pressure to pay the full amount before work begins.
Identity impersonation
Someone pretending to be a legitimate buyer, seller or organisation to gain trust.
- Verify who you are dealing with through more than one channel.
- Be cautious of profiles or accounts created very recently.
- Never share identity documents unless you understand why they are needed.
Urgency and pressure tactics
Scammers often create a false sense of urgency to stop you thinking things through.
- Slow down if someone is pressuring you to act immediately.
- Be sceptical of deals that must be finalised within minutes or hours.
- Take time to verify details, even if it means losing the deal.
Seen something suspicious? Help us understand what happened.
If you have encountered suspicious behaviour connected with TrustEcho, tell us about it. Submitting information to TrustEcho does not replace reporting suspected criminal activity to the appropriate authority.
If you believe you have been the victim of a scam or cybercrime, you should also report it through Scamwatch or ReportCyber. Contact 000 if there is an immediate threat to safety.
- Where you encountered the suspicious behaviour
- Approximate date and location
- Payment method requested
- Any supporting screenshots or messages
How clearer transaction preparation can help
These steps are designed to help reduce the conditions that scams often rely on.
Confirm who you are dealing with
Use appropriate independent checks to confirm the identity of the other party before proceeding.
Put transaction terms in writing
Record what has been agreed, including price, condition and delivery expectations.
Confirm payment details through a trusted channel
Verify any payment or account details directly with the other party before transferring money.
Avoid pressure to act immediately
Take time to check details, even if it means the deal may fall through.
Keep relevant records
Retain messages, listings, receipts and correspondence in case you need them later.
Report suspected criminal activity
Use official channels such as Scamwatch or ReportCyber to report suspected scams or cybercrime.
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