The Marketplace Scam That’s Fooling Canadians in 2025
Selling online can be a great way to declutter or make a few extra bucks—but in 2025, scams on platforms like Facebook Marketplace are more convincing than ever. One of our own team members recently had a close call that could have ended in identity theft, and we think it’s worth sharing so you can spot the warning signs.
The story:
My husband was selling a table on Facebook Marketplace when he received a message from someone claiming they wanted to buy it. They quickly offered to send an e-transfer. When the notification came through, it looked real enough—but when he clicked the link to accept the money, he noticed that the bank login page looked a little… off.
Instead of entering his banking info, he paused and double-checked the URL and design. It turned out the page was a fake—a very convincing copy of a real bank login screen, designed to steal his credentials. Had he logged in, the scammers could’ve gained full access to our bank account.
This kind of scam is on the rise.
Here’s how it usually works:
A scammer pretends to be a buyer or seller.
They offer to send money or accept a payment via e-transfer or another platform.
They send a fake payment link or create urgency to pressure you into clicking.
If you follow the link and input your banking info, they capture it and use it for fraud.
Why are these scams hard to track?
Many scammers use fake accounts or compromised real accounts, often created with spoofed IP addresses, burner email addresses, and fake profile pictures. Facebook removes these accounts quickly when flagged, but by that time, the damage may already be done. These accounts are often operated in bulk by organized scam rings, which means they can disappear and pop up again under new names in a matter of hours.
How to Protect Yourself on Marketplace:
Never click links from strangers offering to pay or receive payment.
Always log into your bank or e-transfer app directly—don’t follow a link sent by someone else.
Watch for small details, like domain names that are slightly off (e.g., rbc-bank[dot]co instead of rbc[dot]com).
Avoid using Marketplace for large transactions unless you're meeting in person.
Report suspicious accounts to Facebook as soon as possible.
A Final Tip:
Scammers often rely on urgency and confusion. If something feels off—even slightly—pause before acting. That moment of caution might save you from losing money, data, or access to your accounts.
Need Help Staying Safe Online?
WildFrog Systems helps local businesses and individuals in Abbotsford stay protected from scams, phishing attacks, and data theft. If you're unsure about a message or online payment, give us a call—we’ll walk you through it, no judgment, no pressure.
Your safety is our priority.
