Online scams are on the rise, and B2B sales platforms such as Vinted often become the playground for those seeking to deceive. One reader decided to share her experience with us, hoping to warn other users and actively participate in the spirit of cooperation that Digital Matrix has with readers and the Public Authority.
The scam in detail
After listing an authentic Louis Vuitton scarf for sale, our reader sent the item to a buyer in France. Despite providing photographic evidence of authenticity, the buyer claimed the item was fake, getting a refund and keeping the scarf. Let the buyer’s photo be a warning to avoid selling merchandise without getting money and returns.
The Vinted platform and its response
Despite numerous attempts to contact them, Vinted responded only once, emphasizing its policy against selling fakes. Subsequently, every attempt at communication was ignored, and the buyer blocked our reader who continues to send an average of three messages a day to the intermediary company’s support, which is already known to be a breeding ground for scams against honest buyers and sellers.
A widespread modus operandi
Online research has revealed that many other users have experienced similar scams on Vinted. Declaring a product as “fake” seems to be a common tactic among scammers. Let me be clear, the reader does not take this strategy as advice, but it pains to report that it is a fact. A broken garment was also the subject of another similar scam already recounted by the editorial staff.
The inaction of the authorities
The victim sought help from the Postal Police and the Guardia di Finanza. However, the hands of the authorities were tied because of the foreign residence of both Vinted and the buyer.
The price of justice
Our reader also considered a legal option, but the prohibitive costs of an international lawsuit made this route impractical. The same reason that put off Digital Matrix from suing Google after the unjustified banning of its YouTube channel
Final reflections.
This testimony highlights the need for platforms like Vinted to take stronger measures to protect their users. In the meantime, it is crucial for users to be vigilant and informed at all times when operating online: word of mouth not about the habits to observe, but rather the scams of the moment, is key to anticipating the moves of criminals. Here are all the inch
