Buying Through Social Media
Buying goods through social media platforms and online marketplaces has become increasingly common. However, this convenience has also led to a rise in purchase scams, where individuals are persuaded to pay for goods or services that are never provided.
If you have lost money in this way, it is important to understand that the issue may not simply be a consumer dispute. In many cases, the conduct involved may amount to fraud, and there may be legal steps available to protect your position.
What Is a Purchase Scam?
A purchase scam typically occurs when a seller advertises goods or services that either:
- do not exist
- are never delivered after payment
- are significantly different from what was advertised
These scams often arise through social media marketplaces, private messaging platforms or online advertisements.
Under the Fraud Act 2006, this type of conduct may constitute fraud by false representation, where a person dishonestly makes a false statement intending to obtain money or cause financial loss to another.
Legal Options Following a Social Media Scam
If money has been lost through a fraudulent transaction, several steps may be available depending on the circumstances.
Reporting the Fraud
Fraud should be reported to Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. Reporting the incident can assist law enforcement authorities in identifying patterns of fraud and investigating offenders.
Contacting Your Bank
If payment has been made by bank transfer, it is important to notify your bank as soon as possible. Banks may be able to investigate the transaction and in some cases attempt recovery of funds.
Preserving Evidence
Anyone affected by a potential purchase scam should retain all relevant evidence relating to the transaction, including:
- screenshots of the advertisement
- the seller’s social media profile
- communications with the seller
- payment confirmations or bank records
This information may assist in any investigation or legal assessment.
How Solicitors Can Assist
Where a financial loss has occurred, legal advice can assist in assessing whether recovery options may be available.
A solicitor may be able to assist with:
- reviewing the circumstances of the transaction
- advising whether the conduct may amount to fraud or misrepresentation
- advising on potential civil claims
- preparing legal correspondence
- advising on possible recovery options where the recipient of funds can be identified
The appropriate course of action will depend on the payment method used, the amount involved and whether the identity of the seller can be established.
Seeking Legal Advice
If you believe you have lost money through a fraudulent online seller, it may be helpful to obtain legal advice in order to understand the options available and the steps that may assist in protecting your position.
The Legal Practice Solicitors provide advice to individuals who have been affected by fraudulent transactions and online scams.
Protect Your Rights Against Fraud and Misrepresentation
If you’ve been a victim of a purchase scam, the Fraud Act 2006 may be on your side. Speak with our specialist litigation team to review your evidence and build your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you recover money from an online scam in the UK?
Recovery may be possible depending on the payment method used and whether the recipient of the funds can be identified.
2. Is selling goods that do not exist illegal in the UK?
Yes. Under the Fraud Act 2006 this may constitute fraud by false representation.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information contained in this article reflects the law of England and Wales at the time of publication and may be subject to change. Each case will depend on its own particular facts and circumstances.