7 Common Scams Targeting Online Sellers in Nigeria

Scammers don't only target buyers; they target sellers too. Nobody is exempt.

Several scams target online sellers, and knowing how they work can help you avoid falling victim and losing money or valuable goods.

Here are 7 common scams every online seller should watch out for:

1. 1. Fake Payment Alerts

A buyer sends a fake bank alert or edited payment receipt to convince you they've paid. Always confirm payments directly from your bank account before releasing any goods.

1. 2. Fake Courier or Delivery Agent Scams

Scammers may pose as delivery agents and contact you with fake pickup arrangements or requests for payment before collecting your goods. Always verify delivery agents and confirm their identity.

1. 3. Advance Fee "Bulk Order" Scams

A buyer offers a large order but asks you to pay upfront for logistics, packaging or clearing fees. Be cautious; it's likely a scam if you must pay before receiving payment.

Always verify bulk orders and confirm the buyer's identity before making any financial commitment. Don't let the excitement of a big sale make you overlook suspicious requests.

1. 4. Chargeback and Payment Dispute Fraud

A buyer pays, receives the product, and later disputes the transaction with their bank or payment provider, claiming they didn't authorise it or receive the goods. Keep transaction records and proof of delivery.

1. 5. Phishing Links Impersonating Payment Gateways

Scammers impersonate payment platforms and financial institutions, sending fake links to steal your login details. Never click suspicious links or share your password or PIN. Always use official websites or apps and enable two-factor authentication for extra security.

Remember, legitimate service providers will never ask you to reveal sensitive account details through random links. Always verify messages before clicking or providing any information. One careless click could put your business funds at risk.

1. 6. Cloned Accounts Impersonating Your Business

Scammers create fake social media accounts using your business name, pictures and products to deceive your customers. Regularly monitor your brand online and warn customers about fake accounts.

1. 7. Fake Investment or Business Partnership Offers

Someone approaches you with promises of business funding, expansion opportunities or investment but demands an upfront payment. Always verify potential business partners before committing your money.

1. Practical Habits That Protect You

1. ● Always confirm payments before releasing goods.
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3. ● Verify buyers, delivery agents and business partners.
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5. ● Never share your OTP, PIN or banking details.
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7. ● Avoid suspicious links and unexpected payment requests.
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9. ● Keep records of payments, conversations and deliveries.

1. How Escrow Village Helps Protect Sellers

Escrow Village helps create a safer environment for online transactions by introducing a trusted third party between buyers and sellers.

Instead of relying on payment screenshots or empty promises, buyers make payments through the escrow process, and the funds are held until the agreed transaction conditions are met.

This gives sellers more confidence that payment is secured before releasing their goods, while buyers also get protection against sellers who fail to deliver.

Don't leave your business vulnerable to scammers. Protect your transactions, protect your money and trade with confidence.

With Escrow Village, safer transactions are possible.