Don’t send money in advance for online deals

Sending money upfront when buying or selling online is one of the riskiest actions. Scammers often request prepayment “to reserve,” “for delivery,” “as proof of intent,” or offer unrealistically выгодные terms to rush the transfer.

To reduce risk:
• never send prepayments to unfamiliar individuals or sellers without a verified reputation;
• check reviews, account history, and real contact information — don’t rely on chat messages alone;
• use secure payment methods: cash on delivery, official platforms with transaction protection, contracts, and supporting documents;
• be cautious if you’re being rushed, asked to transfer money “by card number or phone number,” or encouraged to move the conversation to another messenger.

If something feels off, it’s better to walk away from the deal. Safety matters more than a low price.