North Wales Police have provided advice to residents following reports of a banking app scam on social media sites. 

The force say they are aware of the fake banking app scam being used on people selling items on social media ‘marketplace’ sites.

The app is used to make it appear as though money has been transferred when it hasn’t. 

It is reported when a meeting takes place to hand over the item being sold, the victim puts their bank details into the fake app on the scammer’s phone.

The app then produces a screen, which makes it appear the money has been successfully transferred.

The scammer then pretends to call their bank, claiming it can take up to two hours for the funds to show in the victim’s bank.

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Police say they are also aware of counterfeit notes being used to buy items advertised on marketplace sites.

As a result, they have issued the following advice to ensure others don’t fall victim to the scam.

DO:

  • Check the buyer’s review history and feedback from other reviewers.
  • Beware of accounts that may have been set up very recently with lots of favourable feedback that sounds similar - this could be an indication of fake reviews.
  • Always use the site’s recommended payment site (e.g PayPal) and read the terms and conditions to understand what you are protected for. If you pay any other way than via a recommended payment site, you may not be able to recover your money.
  • Avoid direct bank transfers where possible.
  • If payment is made via bank transfer, always check with your own bank if any payment is shown pending.
  • Keep hold of any property until you have received confirmation from your bank that the payment has been received successfully.
  • If using cash, consider doing this at your or the seller’s bank premises for added protection.
  • Trust your instincts, decline the sale if you have any doubts.

DON’T:

  • Don’t allow the buyer to change the original agreed meeting place.
  • Don’t hand over any goods until the money is confirmed in your account.
  • Don’t allow the buyer to rush you in an effort to persuade you that payment has been made.