Facebook Marketplace buyer who "overpays" by accident
A buyer sends a fake payment screenshot for too much and asks you to refund the difference.
How this scam works
You list something for sale. A buyer agrees the price immediately without haggling, which should be the first clue. They say they will send a courier to collect it, so they never have to meet you.
Then they send a screenshot showing they paid too much: £400 instead of £40. They apologise and ask you to send the extra £360 back.
The screenshot is fake or the payment is reversed later. You send real money out and receive nothing.
A version of this also runs the other way, where a "seller" asks for payment by bank transfer for goods that never arrive.
Warning signs
- They agree the asking price instantly, with no questions
- They insist on sending their own courier
- They send a screenshot as proof of payment rather than you seeing it in your account
- They ask you to refund an overpayment
What to do
- Only ever act on money you can see in your own bank app, not on a screenshot.
- Never refund an overpayment. Ask them to contact their own bank.
- Meet in person for local sales where you can.
If it has already happened to you
This happens to sensible, careful people every day. What matters now is acting quickly.
- Contact your bank and report the transfer.
- Report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at actionfraud.police.uk.
- Report the profile to Facebook and keep screenshots of the conversation.
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Check a messageLast updated 29 September 2026. Source: Action Fraud.