Facebook Marketplace is super convenient for buying and selling stuff locally. But unfortunately, it’s also full of scammers trying to take advantage of unsuspecting users. If you’ve been burned or even just spotted a shady seller or buyer, it’s important to know how to report a scam on Facebook Marketplace to protect yourself and others from getting ripped off.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything from spotting red flags to making sure your report gets where it needs to go. Whether you’re in Mississauga or anywhere else in Canada, this info can help you stay safe online.
How to Report a Scam on Facebook Marketplace (Step-by-Step)
Let’s get right to it. If you’ve run into a fake listing, a sketchy buyer, or someone who took your money and ghosted, here’s how to report a Facebook Marketplace scam:
- Go to the listing or message thread with the scammer.
- Tap the three dots (…) on the post or profile.
- Click “Report”.
- Choose “Scam or fraud” from the list of options.
- Follow the prompts and submit.
That’s it! You’ve done your part in helping Facebook flag and remove the scammer. But don’t stop there; there are a few more steps you can take if money or personal info was involved.
Red Flags to Spot Facebook Marketplace Scams
Sometimes scams are super obvious, but others can be sneaky. These are some of the most common Facebook Marketplace scams we see:
- Price Too Good to Be True: If it looks like a brand-new iPhone for $100, it’s probably a scam.
- Rushed Communication: They pressure you to send money fast.
- eTransfer Requests Upfront: Especially if they ask for payment before you’ve seen the item.
- Weird URLs or Links: A fake Facebook Marketplace link can lead you to phishing sites.
- Fake Shipping Stories: Watch out for sellers who say, “I’ll ship it once you send the money.”
Knowing these red flags can help you avoid getting scammed in the first place.
What to Do if You Got Scammed on Facebook Marketplace
If you’ve already lost money, don’t panic, but take action fast.
Tell Your Bank
Call your bank or credit union immediately and explain what happened. If you sent an eTransfer, they might be able to freeze the transaction or investigate the Facebook Marketplace eTransfer scam. Some cases can be reversed, especially if you act quickly.
File a Police Report
If you’ve lost money or shared personal info, go to your local police station or file an online report. They can log the case as part of ongoing computer crimes in Canada, and may even be able to track the scammer down if it’s a repeat offence.
Report the Scam to Authorities
If you’re in Canada, this is super important. Here’s how to report a scam in Canada beyond just Facebook:
- Visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre through their official internet reporting service
- Call the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501
If you’re wondering, “How do I report a scammer that’s not on Facebook?”, this is also the website to use for reporting any scam.
Why You Should Report Every Scam (Even the Small Ones)
Even if you didn’t lose money, reporting scams helps others avoid falling victim to them. Every report contributes to a bigger investigation, especially when scammers are operating across multiple accounts or provinces. Plus, the more people report Facebook Marketplace scammers, the quicker Facebook can shut them down and improve its algorithm to detect future threats.
Common Facebook Marketplace Scams in Canada
These are some of the scams we’re seeing across Ontario and beyond:
- Fake Rentals: Scammers list properties they don’t own and ask for deposits up front.
- Vehicle Scams: They’ll show you a vehicle, then claim it’s out of town and needs shipping (for a fee).
- Broken Electronics: The item works for a few minutes or days, then dies, and the seller disappears.
- Refund Tricks: They overpay you and ask for a refund, only to reverse the original payment after you’ve sent them money.
If you’ve been scammed on Facebook Marketplace, you’re definitely not alone.
Is Facebook Marketplace Safe to Use?
So, is Facebook Marketplace safe? The short answer: It can be, if you’re careful. Here are some quick tips:
- Meet in public spots like police station parking lots.
- Avoid sending money until you’ve seen and tested the item.
- Stick to local deals whenever possible.
- Don’t click on suspicious Facebook Marketplace links.
- Screenshot everything, just in case.
Remember, scammers often prey on people looking for deals or quick sales. A little caution goes a long way.
What Role Do IT Companies Play in Online Safety?
You might not think to involve your tech team, but the truth is that digital scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Many Mississauga IT companies, like Wingman Solutions, are now helping businesses and individuals protect their devices, inboxes, and online identities from phishing scams and fraud attempts. We help set up stronger security systems, firewalls, and real-time scam alerts. If you’ve been hit by a scam or want to prevent one, your local IT support team can be your first line of defence.
Final Words on Facebook Marketplace Scams
Getting scammed online sucks, but reporting it can actually make a big difference. Whether you’re trying to figure out how to report a Facebook Marketplace scam, report fraud to Canadian authorities, or just avoid sketchy deals altogether, the key is to stay alert and take action fast.
Protect your accounts. Watch out for red flags. And don’t be afraid to get help from your bank, local police, or IT provider.
Need help securing your online privacy as a small business? Reach out to Wingman Solutions. We’ve got your back, whether you’re dealing with a tech crisis or just want better protection.
FAQs About Facebook Marketplace Scams
What should I do if I was scammed on Facebook Marketplace?
Start by reporting the scam to Facebook, then contact your bank. If money was lost, file a police report and contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre through their internet reporting service or by calling 1-888-495-8501.
How do I report a scammer on Facebook?
Go to the person’s profile or the message thread, tap the three dots, then hit “Report.” Choose “Scam or fraud” and follow the steps.
Can my bank help me with a Facebook Marketplace scam?
Yes. If it’s a bank fraud situation involving e-transfer, wire transfer, or debit/credit card, contact your bank immediately to initiate an investigation.
Is Facebook Marketplace safe for Canadians?
Yes, but only if you follow smart safety practices. Be cautious of Facebook Marketplace e-transfer scams, and always meet in a public place.
What’s the best way to avoid Facebook scams?
Don’t click on strange Facebook Marketplace links, never send money before meeting someone, and don’t share personal information.
What if the scammer isn’t from Canada?
You can still report them to Facebook and your bank. You may also want to mention them when you report a scam in Canada, so the authorities can monitor patterns in international scams.
