How to Spot a Scam on Nigerian Classified Ads
Over ₦5 billion is lost to online marketplace scams in Nigeria every year. Here's how to stay safe.
10 Red Flags of a Scam
- Price is 50%+ below market value
- Seller refuses to meet in person
- Asks for advance payment before inspection
- Only communicates via WhatsApp (not platform chat)
- Refuses to send additional photos or videos
- Rushes you to decide immediately
- Phone number is constantly changing
- Sends suspicious bank account in a different name
- Insists on cryptocurrency or gift cards
- Reviews are all recent and generic
How to Protect Yourself
- Always inspect in person before paying
- Use SellersDotNG chat — it logs conversations
- Pay via bank transfer so you have proof
- Meet at a bank, mall, or police station
- Bring a friend or family member
If You Get Scammed
- Report the listing on SellersDotNG immediately
- Save all screenshots and bank details
- Report to your bank within 24 hours
- File a report at the nearest police station
- Report to EFCC if amount is over ₦1,000,000
Remember
If it looks too good to be true, it is. Trust your instincts — walk away.