Online scams don't disappear — they adapt. In 2026, fraudsters use AI to generate more credible listings, more convincing profiles and more persuasive conversations.
Here are the 7 most active schemes on Facebook Marketplace, Vinted, Leboncoin and Vestiaire Collective — with precise signals to recognize them.
1. The "reversed buyer protection" scam
How it works: The seller asks you to click a link to "activate buyer protection". The link is a perfect copy of the official site. You enter your banking details. The seller disappears.
Red flag: Any request to click an external link for "protection". Real buyer protection never requires an external link.
2. The ghost vacation rental
How it works: A rental listing with beautiful photos and a price slightly below market. The "owner" is always abroad and can't show the property. They ask for a bank transfer to "reserve". The property doesn't exist.
Red flags: Owner unavailable for a visit, direct bank transfer requested, price 15-25% below local market.
3. The fake iPhone / MacBook "like new"
How it works: Listing for a recent iPhone or MacBook, real photos, price 20-30% below market. The seller says they got it as a gift. Upon delivery: Apple box with a brick of the same size/weight, or an iCloud-locked device impossible to use.
Red flags: Refusal to provide IMEI number, off-platform transaction requested, seller "going abroad tomorrow".
How to verify: Ask for the IMEI number. Check it on imei.info — you'll see the model, color and whether the device is stolen.
4. The luxury clothing scam
How it works: Hermès bag, Rolex watch or Nike SB sneakers at 40-60% below secondary market price. The photos are real (stolen from other legitimate listings). The delivered item is a counterfeit, or never arrives.
Golden rule: For any purchase over €200, require a video of the seller holding the item with a sheet of paper written with your first name.
5. The bank check scam
How it works: You're selling an item. A buyer sends you a bank check for more than the asking price. They ask you to refund the difference by transfer. The check is fake — you've sent real money.
Red flag: Any buyer who "overpays" and asks for a partial refund.
6. The vehicle sold "from abroad"
How it works: A car or motorcycle listing with professional photos and an attractive price. The seller explains they're on a business trip and offers to deliver via an escrow service. They ask for a transfer to "secure the reservation". The vehicle doesn't exist.
Absolute rule: Never buy a vehicle without seeing it in person and verifying the registration document and VIN number.
7. AI-generated scams
How it works: AI-generated listings with perfect descriptions, no spelling mistakes, with realistic photos generated by Midjourney. Conversations are handled by chatbots capable of responding coherently for days.
Red flags: Description too perfect, too fluid, without personal details. Refusal of a video call. Always-on responses at any hour.
How to protect yourself in 2026
- Analyze the listing with Trustee before replying
- Never send money without seeing the item in person or on video
- Stay on the platform — never agree to go to WhatsApp or direct transfer
- Check images with Google reverse image search
- Report suspicious listings — you protect other buyers