How to avoid scams when selling online in Singapore
Only hand over an item after the money is in your account, never click payment or delivery links a buyer sends you, never share one-time passwords (OTPs), and be suspicious of anyone who offers to overpay or wants to move the chat to another app. If in doubt, check with the ScamShield app or call the Anti-Scam Helpline at 1799.
Common scams on sellers
- Fake payment links. The buyer sends a link to "receive payment" or "arrange delivery" that steals your banking login.
- OTP requests. The buyer asks for a code sent to your phone "to verify" you. It gives them access to your account.
- Fake payment screenshots. An edited PayNow screenshot instead of a real transfer.
- Overpayment. The buyer "accidentally" pays too much and asks you to refund the difference.
- Courier pretexts. The buyer insists on their own courier and asks you to pay a fee to release the money.
Rules that stop almost all of them
- Check your own banking app for the money. Never trust a screenshot.
- Don't click links from buyers. Open your bank or the platform yourself.
- Never share an OTP, password or card details with anyone.
- Keep the conversation on the platform where you listed.
- Meet in busy public places, or use a courier you booked yourself.
How Selutiq protects sellers
With Selutiq, buyers pay through a checkout before anything is collected, and the payment is held until the buyer receives the item. You never receive a payment link from a stranger, and a courier picks up from your door with an order code, so there's no meetup. Selutiq is launching soon in Singapore; join the waitlist.
Frequently asked questions
How do I avoid getting scammed on Carousell as a seller?
Only release the item once the money is in your bank account, never click links a buyer sends, never share OTPs, and keep chats on the platform.
Is it safe to accept PayNow from a stranger?
PayNow itself is safe, but check your banking app for the transfer before handing anything over. Screenshots can be faked.
Where do I report a scam in Singapore?
Call the Anti-Scam Helpline at 1799, use the ScamShield app or website, and make a police report. Report the account on the platform too.