We would strongly recommend not to pay in advance. If you must pay something to have the seller hold the product for you, ensure it is a small & insignificant amount.
Advance payment is the most common technique adopted by fraud sellers to trick buyers and pursue them to make upfront payments for goods, services, etc.
Advance payment frauds – What you must watch for!
- Too good to be true and irresistible offers
- Token money demands without meeting in person/physically checking the product
- Showcase of absolute urgency to sell the item or an emotional appeal, eg. family member is sick and urgent need of money for operation, payment of school fees, etc.
- Advance fees to cover any processing charges, pay duty, taxes, courier fees, shipment and conversion charges, etc.