Auction fraud

Auction fraud and online shopping fraud are two forms of customer and consumer fraud where sellers and buyers use deceptive tactics to steal money or goods.

Auction fraud happens on auction platforms like bidding sites or marketplaces.

What it looks like:

• Non-delivery: You win an auction and pay but the item doesn't arrive.
• Misrepresentation: The item arrives but it is counterfeit, fake, damaged or different from the listed description.
• Shill bidding: The seller (or an accomplice) secretly bids to drive the price of an item up.
• Intimidation: Criminals scare off other bidders so they can bid cheaply.
• Second-chance scams: After losing an auction, you're contacted with a fake "second chance" offer.

Online shopping fraud applies to any online purchase, not just at auctions.

What it looks like:

• Fake online stores: Realistic or professional-looking websites that only exist to take payments.
• Counterfeit goods: Fake or knockoff goods sold as real and genuine products.
• Non-delivery or partial delivery: The product or item purchased doesn't arrive or you receive something different.
• Phishing: Fake order confirmation emails that steal login or payment details.

Check the auction is legitimate: Research auctions to check they're legitimate, particularly if you’ve not used it before. Use consumer websites, or reviews from people (or organisations) that you trust.

Use a credit card to pay: Use a credit card for payments (if you have one). Many of these protect online purchases as part of the Consumer Credit Act.

Only provide required details at checkout: When making your payment, only fill in the mandatory details (often marked with an asterisk) such as your address. Unless you think you’ll become a regular customer, don't create an account for the store.

Keep your accounts secure: Make sure your shopping, online banking and payment accounts are protected by strong passwords that you don't use for any other account.

Report fraud: If you have been a victim of fraud, tell your bank and report it as a crime to Report Fraud (for England, Wales and Northern Ireland) or Police Scotland (for Scotland).

If you have made a payment: Inform your bank as soon as possible, they can help you prevent any further losses. Monitor your bank statements regularly for any unusual activity.

Identity theft: If you have shared personal or financial information, and suspect your identity may have been stolen, you can check your credit file quickly and easily online. You should do this every few months anyway, using a reputable service provider and follow up on any unexpected or suspicious results. You can also sign up for Cifas services which can help to protect you against fraud.

You could be targeted again: Fraudsters sometimes re-establish contact with previous victims claiming that they can help them recover lost money, this is just a secondary scam. Hang up on any callers that claim they can get your money back for you.

If you’ve contacted the auction site but your dispute can’t be resolved, report it to us online or call 0300 123 2040.