E-marketplaces should be able to validate the identity of users to sift out the scammers.
Telcos are showing the way with real-time tracking
It should be possible to rein in scams even more effectively if all e-marketplaces step up identity checks and also offer secure payment options, says the writer. SINGAPORE - I listed a vintage table and two gymnastics tumbling mats for sale on Facebook Marketplace in February and discovered that the ingenuity of fake buyers could fool even the most seasoned online sellers.
One interested buyer offered to pay a courier to pick up the mats. He sent a screenshot of QXpress’ courier service, purportedly taken from its website, detailing that the buyer would typically arrange for payment with the seller receiving a quick response code. I would need to scan the QR code to confirm the sale and receive the money.