{"content_id":"nh7rx6r8jr","slug":"secondhand-seller-scam-prevention-and-response","locale":"en","schema_type":"HowTo","category":"how_to","category_name":"How-to","title":"Scams Targeting Secondhand Sellers: Tactics and What to Do","summary":"Demands that secondhand sellers pay to unlock withdrawals are a warning sign of fraud. Learn how to check a transaction in the official app and what to do, step by step, if you have sent money or exposed personal information.","sponsorship_disclosure":null,"affiliate_disclosure":null,"commerce_disclosure":null,"author":{"name":"Injoys Editorial Team","url":"https://injoys.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["If a buyer asks you to move to an external site, stop the transaction and open the official app yourself.","Check the payment status in the official app's order history or in your own bank account.","Do not make any additional deposits requested to unlock withdrawals or fix an account error.","Depending on what information you entered and whether you sent money, ask your bank or KISA about the protective steps you need to take.","Save your chat and transfer records, then report the scam to the platform and the police."],"content_markdown":"Sellers in secondhand transactions can also lose money to fake secure payment sites. A demand to deposit money before withdrawing sale proceeds is a warning sign of fraud. Stop sending money. Check the payment status directly in the official app or your own bank account.\n\nThe legal explanation is based on the Telecommunications Fraud Victim Refund Act effective October 2, 2026.\n\n## How secondhand transaction scams target sellers\n\nThe scammer poses as a buyer, then gets the seller to send money. First, they propose buying with points on another site. They then persuade the seller to list the item again on that site.\n\nThe fake site shows the sale proceeds as points credited to the seller. When the seller tries to withdraw them, the site blocks the withdrawal, citing an account error or freeze. A channel posing as customer support demands a deposit to resolve the problem.\n\n| Stage | What the other party says | What the seller should check |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Move to an external site | They will buy with rewards points on another site | Whether there is a reason to trade outside the original platform |\n| Relist the item | They ask the seller to list the item on a new site | Whether the seller has independently verified that it is an official service |\n| Fake payment display | The sale proceeds have been paid in points | Whether the actual order and payment can be verified through official channels |\n| Withdrawal blocked | There is an account number error or payment suspension | Whether the bank can confirm the same restriction |\n| Demand for another transfer | The seller must add funds equal to the sale amount to withdraw | Whether a separate transfer is required to receive the money |\n\nA report by Maeil Shinmun on October 6, 2024, described the same pattern. It reported a case in which a seller was asked to pay a fee to withdraw points. That report alone cannot establish the current rate of increase in victims.\n\n## Comparing official secure payment services with fake ones\n\nJudge by the order details you verify yourself, not by the name “secure payment.” With secure payment, the purchase price is held and then settled under specified conditions. Fees and settlement times vary by platform.\n\n| What to check | What to verify in the official service | A signal to stop the transaction and check |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| How you access it | The payment menu in the official app you opened yourself | You can access it only through an unfamiliar link sent by the other party |\n| Payment status | Actual order and payment records in your account | The other party provides only a screenshot or text message |\n| Fees | Fee information in the official help pages and transaction screen | A demand for a separate bank transfer to unlock a withdrawal |\n| Customer support | A support channel you found directly in the official app | An agent reached through the link repeatedly demands more deposits |\n| Withdrawal restrictions | A reason confirmed by official customer support and the bank | A demand to add funds equal to the sale amount to fix an error |\n\nDo not assume a site is legitimate because it lets you list an item. A logo and a customer support screen do not prove it is genuine either. Even if the screen looks familiar, open the official app separately to check.\n\n## What to check before a transaction\n\nSellers should verify the payment status through official channels before handing over an item. A deposit screen sent by the buyer does not confirm that the money was actually deposited. Bank transfers and secure payments must be checked in different places.\n\n1. Confirm the transaction terms in the original platform’s chat. Check any request to move to an external site with the platform’s official customer support.\n2. For a bank transfer, check incoming transactions in your own banking app. Do not ship an item based only on a text message or screenshot sent by the other party.\n3. For a secure payment transaction, check the order status in the official app. Follow that service’s guidance on whether you can ship the item.\n4. If you are asked to pay to unlock a withdrawal, stop sending money. Use official customer support instead of a support channel provided by the other party.\n5. Keep a record of the item’s condition and the agreed transaction terms. If you have shipped it, keep the tracking number and delivery records too.\n\n## What to do at each stage of a suspected scam\n\nOpening a link, entering information, and sending money call for different responses. First, identify how far you got. If you installed an app, you should also seek advice about possible exposure of your financial information.\n\n| Current situation | What to do first | Who to contact |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| You opened a link but entered nothing and installed nothing | Close the window and do not enter any information | KISA 118 if you noticed suspicious activity |\n| You entered an ID and password | Change the password through the real service | The service’s official customer support |\n| You use the same password elsewhere | Change it on accounts that use the same password | Each service’s official security menu |\n| You sent an ID document or personal information | List the information you sent and seek advice on protective steps | KISA 118, the relevant financial company |\n| You entered a financial password or authentication information | Ask whether your account needs protection or transaction restrictions | Your bank’s official customer support |\n| You installed an app or allowed remote control | Contact your financial company from another, safe device | Your bank, KISA 118 |\n| You have already sent money | Stop sending money and report what happened | The sending bank, the bank holding the recipient’s account, the police |\n\nOpening a link alone is not enough to determine whether your device is infected. Check whether you also ran an installation file. If you are unsure, ask KISA 118 for advice on what to do.\n\n## The difference between protecting your account and freezing the recipient’s account\n\nSteps to protect your own account are separate from a freeze on the recipient’s account. If your authentication information has been exposed, ask your bank for protective measures. For money you have already sent, check separately whether action can be taken on the receiving account.\n\n| Category | Purpose | What to check |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Protecting your account | Prevent further harm, such as unauthorized transfers | Whether authentication information must be reissued or transactions restricted |\n| Freezing the recipient’s account | Prevent the stolen funds from being withdrawn | Whether you can apply, given the type of case |\n| Recovering the money | Recover losses that have already occurred | Applicable victim relief and court procedures |\n\nNot every secondhand transaction scam qualifies for an account freeze under the special act. Article 2 of the Telecommunications Fraud Victim Refund Act contains an exclusion for acts disguised as transactions for goods or services. You can check the provision at the National Law Information Center.\n\nThe nature of a payment to unlock a withdrawal must, however, be assessed in light of what actually happened. Explain to the bank whether the transfer was payment for goods or was made in response to a demand for an additional deposit. Check with the bank and police whether an account freeze is possible. Even if the account is frozen, a full refund is not guaranteed.\n\n## What to collect and do when reporting a scam\n\nYour report materials should show the link between the other party’s demands and your transfers. If you keep only the screen showing the final deposit, the record will omit how you were lured to the external site. Save the conversation from the first transaction proposal onward.\n\nThe National Police Agency’s Cybercrime Reporting System, ECRM, provides the following guidance:\n\n\u003e Because of the nature of online reporting, the victim must visit a police station and give a statement.\n\u003e\n\u003e Source: National Police Agency Cybercrime Reporting System ECRM reporting guidance\n\n1. Save the other party’s account details and the original listing. Record the external site’s address too.\n2. Keep screens showing the points credited and the withdrawal error. Save the conversation demanding an additional deposit as well.\n3. Obtain your transfer records from the bank. Prepare records showing the transfer date and time, amount, and receiving account.\n4. Report the account through the transaction platform’s official reporting menu. Preserve the records before blocking the account.\n5. Report the loss through ECRM or at a police station. Prepare your ID and evidence of the conversations and transfers.\n\nAfter reporting online through ECRM, you may need to visit a police station. An exception to the visit requirement may apply in some cases involving multiple victims. Check the filing instructions and ask the investigator in charge whether you need to visit.\n\nYou can report an urgent crime to 112. Police civil complaint guidance is available at 182. For advice about personal information breaches and malicious apps, contact KISA 118.\n\n## Common mistakes when checking scam reports\n\nA result showing no reports does not guarantee safety. Police Civil Complaints 24 searches have limits on the search period and number of reports. A number used for the first time, or one with few reports, may not appear in the results.\n\nPolice Civil Complaints 24 says it compares numbers reported at least 3 times in the past 3 months. Check the criteria again on the screen when you use the service. (Check result: compares numbers reported to the cybercrime reporting system at least 3 times in the 3 months before the search · Source: minwon24.police.go.kr · Checked 2026-10-17) Alongside the search result, examine the payment steps the other party is asking you to follow.\n\n| Common assumption | What is easy to miss | How to check |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| No scam reports means it is safe | Possible victims outside the search criteria | Check for requests to move to an external site or send more money |\n| A customer support channel means the site is legitimate | The support channel may also be fake | Find and access customer support directly in the official app |\n| Points have arrived, so the sale is complete | The number on the screen is not the same as actual payment | Check official order and settlement records |\n| Sending money once more will get the earlier payment back | Demands for additional deposits can continue | Stop sending money and contact the bank and police |\n| Reaching the meeting place means it is safe | You have not yet seen the actual item and seller | Refuse to pay in advance before inspecting the item |\n\n## Transaction terms buyers should also check\n\nBuyers should check the item and the payment channel separately. A low price or a plausible story from the seller is not proof that a transaction is safe. An agreement to meet in person is no substitute for inspecting the actual item.\n\n| Transaction situation | What to check |\n| --- | --- |\n| Holiday gifts or household goods | Whether the seller actually has the item and its condition |\n| Gift certificates | Whether they can be used and under what conditions |\n| Electronics | The model, working condition, and disclosed defects |\n| High-value items such as farm machinery | The actual equipment’s condition and the other party’s authority to sell it |\n| Transactions with separate procedures, such as used cars and real estate | Ownership and the official documents required for the transaction |\n| A request for advance payment at an in-person meeting place | Whether you have seen the seller and the item yourself |\n\nIf someone gives you only an apartment complex name and says they will provide the full address after you pay, stop the transaction. You do not need to pay in advance just because you have arrived at the meeting place. Sellers should also confirm that the money has actually reached their own account before handing over the item.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eSellers in secondhand transactions can also lose money to fake secure payment sites. A demand to deposit money before withdrawing sale proceeds is a warning sign of fraud. Stop sending money. Check the payment status directly in the official app or your own bank account.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe legal explanation is based on the Telecommunications Fraud Victim Refund Act effective October 2, 2026.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#how-secondhand-transaction-scams-target-sellers\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-secondhand-transaction-scams-target-sellers\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow secondhand transaction scams target sellers\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe scammer poses as a buyer, then gets the seller to send money. First, they propose buying with points on another site. They then persuade the seller to list the item again on that site.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fake site shows the sale proceeds as points credited to the seller. When the seller tries to withdraw them, the site blocks the withdrawal, citing an account error or freeze. A channel posing as customer support demands a deposit to resolve the problem.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eStage\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat the other party says\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat the seller should check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stage\"\u003eMove to an external site\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What the other party says\"\u003eThey will buy with rewards points on another site\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What the seller should check\"\u003eWhether there is a reason to trade outside the original platform\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stage\"\u003eRelist the item\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What the other party says\"\u003eThey ask the seller to list the item on a new site\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What the seller should check\"\u003eWhether the seller has independently verified that it is an official service\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stage\"\u003eFake payment display\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What the other party says\"\u003eThe sale proceeds have been paid in points\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What the seller should check\"\u003eWhether the actual order and payment can be verified through official channels\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stage\"\u003eWithdrawal blocked\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What the other party says\"\u003eThere is an account number error or payment suspension\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What the seller should check\"\u003eWhether the bank can confirm the same restriction\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Stage\"\u003eDemand for another transfer\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What the other party says\"\u003eThe seller must add funds equal to the sale amount to withdraw\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What the seller should check\"\u003eWhether a separate transfer is required to receive the money\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA report by Maeil Shinmun on October 6, 2024, described the same pattern. It reported a case in which a seller was asked to pay a fee to withdraw points. That report alone cannot establish the current rate of increase in victims.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#comparing-official-secure-payment-services-with-fake-ones\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"comparing-official-secure-payment-services-with-fake-ones\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eComparing official secure payment services with fake ones\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJudge by the order details you verify yourself, not by the name “secure payment.” With secure payment, the purchase price is held and then settled under specified conditions. Fees and settlement times vary by platform.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to verify in the official service\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eA signal to stop the transaction and check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eHow you access it\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to verify in the official service\"\u003eThe payment menu in the official app you opened yourself\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"A signal to stop the transaction and check\"\u003eYou can access it only through an unfamiliar link sent by the other party\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003ePayment status\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to verify in the official service\"\u003eActual order and payment records in your account\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"A signal to stop the transaction and check\"\u003eThe other party provides only a screenshot or text message\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eFees\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to verify in the official service\"\u003eFee information in the official help pages and transaction screen\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"A signal to stop the transaction and check\"\u003eA demand for a separate bank transfer to unlock a withdrawal\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eCustomer support\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to verify in the official service\"\u003eA support channel you found directly in the official app\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"A signal to stop the transaction and check\"\u003eAn agent reached through the link repeatedly demands more deposits\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eWithdrawal restrictions\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to verify in the official service\"\u003eA reason confirmed by official customer support and the bank\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"A signal to stop the transaction and check\"\u003eA demand to add funds equal to the sale amount to fix an error\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not assume a site is legitimate because it lets you list an item. A logo and a customer support screen do not prove it is genuine either. Even if the screen looks familiar, open the official app separately to check.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#what-to-check-before-a-transaction\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"what-to-check-before-a-transaction\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhat to check before a transaction\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSellers should verify the payment status through official channels before handing over an item. A deposit screen sent by the buyer does not confirm that the money was actually deposited. Bank transfers and secure payments must be checked in different places.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfirm the transaction terms in the original platform’s chat. Check any request to move to an external site with the platform’s official customer support.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor a bank transfer, check incoming transactions in your own banking app. Do not ship an item based only on a text message or screenshot sent by the other party.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor a secure payment transaction, check the order status in the official app. Follow that service’s guidance on whether you can ship the item.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you are asked to pay to unlock a withdrawal, stop sending money. Use official customer support instead of a support channel provided by the other party.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep a record of the item’s condition and the agreed transaction terms. If you have shipped it, keep the tracking number and delivery records too.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#what-to-do-at-each-stage-of-a-suspected-scam\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"what-to-do-at-each-stage-of-a-suspected-scam\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhat to do at each stage of a suspected scam\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOpening a link, entering information, and sending money call for different responses. First, identify how far you got. If you installed an app, you should also seek advice about possible exposure of your financial information.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCurrent situation\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to do first\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWho to contact\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current situation\"\u003eYou opened a link but entered nothing and installed nothing\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to do first\"\u003eClose the window and do not enter any information\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Who to contact\"\u003eKISA 118 if you noticed suspicious activity\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current situation\"\u003eYou entered an ID and password\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to do first\"\u003eChange the password through the real service\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Who to contact\"\u003eThe service’s official customer support\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current situation\"\u003eYou use the same password elsewhere\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to do first\"\u003eChange it on accounts that use the same password\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Who to contact\"\u003eEach service’s official security menu\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current situation\"\u003eYou sent an ID document or personal information\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to do first\"\u003eList the information you sent and seek advice on protective steps\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Who to contact\"\u003eKISA 118, the relevant financial company\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current situation\"\u003eYou entered a financial password or authentication information\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to do first\"\u003eAsk whether your account needs protection or transaction restrictions\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Who to contact\"\u003eYour bank’s official customer support\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current situation\"\u003eYou installed an app or allowed remote control\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to do first\"\u003eContact your financial company from another, safe device\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Who to contact\"\u003eYour bank, KISA 118\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Current situation\"\u003eYou have already sent money\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to do first\"\u003eStop sending money and report what happened\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Who to contact\"\u003eThe sending bank, the bank holding the recipient’s account, the police\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOpening a link alone is not enough to determine whether your device is infected. Check whether you also ran an installation file. If you are unsure, ask KISA 118 for advice on what to do.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#the-difference-between-protecting-your-account-and-freezing-the-recipients-account\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"the-difference-between-protecting-your-account-and-freezing-the-recipients-account\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eThe difference between protecting your account and freezing the recipient’s account\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSteps to protect your own account are separate from a freeze on the recipient’s account. If your authentication information has been exposed, ask your bank for protective measures. For money you have already sent, check separately whether action can be taken on the receiving account.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCategory\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePurpose\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eProtecting your account\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Purpose\"\u003ePrevent further harm, such as unauthorized transfers\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eWhether authentication information must be reissued or transactions restricted\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eFreezing the recipient’s account\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Purpose\"\u003ePrevent the stolen funds from being withdrawn\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eWhether you can apply, given the type of case\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Category\"\u003eRecovering the money\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Purpose\"\u003eRecover losses that have already occurred\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eApplicable victim relief and court procedures\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot every secondhand transaction scam qualifies for an account freeze under the special act. Article 2 of the Telecommunications Fraud Victim Refund Act contains an exclusion for acts disguised as transactions for goods or services. You can check the provision at the National Law Information Center.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe nature of a payment to unlock a withdrawal must, however, be assessed in light of what actually happened. Explain to the bank whether the transfer was payment for goods or was made in response to a demand for an additional deposit. Check with the bank and police whether an account freeze is possible. Even if the account is frozen, a full refund is not guaranteed.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#what-to-collect-and-do-when-reporting-a-scam\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"what-to-collect-and-do-when-reporting-a-scam\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhat to collect and do when reporting a scam\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYour report materials should show the link between the other party’s demands and your transfers. If you keep only the screen showing the final deposit, the record will omit how you were lured to the external site. Save the conversation from the first transaction proposal onward.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe National Police Agency’s Cybercrime Reporting System, ECRM, provides the following guidance:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause of the nature of online reporting, the victim must visit a police station and give a statement.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSource: National Police Agency Cybercrime Reporting System ECRM reporting guidance\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/blockquote\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSave the other party’s account details and the original listing. Record the external site’s address too.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep screens showing the points credited and the withdrawal error. Save the conversation demanding an additional deposit as well.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eObtain your transfer records from the bank. Prepare records showing the transfer date and time, amount, and receiving account.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReport the account through the transaction platform’s official reporting menu. Preserve the records before blocking the account.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReport the loss through ECRM or at a police station. Prepare your ID and evidence of the conversations and transfers.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter reporting online through ECRM, you may need to visit a police station. An exception to the visit requirement may apply in some cases involving multiple victims. Check the filing instructions and ask the investigator in charge whether you need to visit.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can report an urgent crime to 112. Police civil complaint guidance is available at 182. For advice about personal information breaches and malicious apps, contact KISA 118.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#common-mistakes-when-checking-scam-reports\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"common-mistakes-when-checking-scam-reports\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eCommon mistakes when checking scam reports\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA result showing no reports does not guarantee safety. Police Civil Complaints 24 searches have limits on the search period and number of reports. A number used for the first time, or one with few reports, may not appear in the results.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePolice Civil Complaints 24 says it compares numbers reported at least 3 times in the past 3 months. Check the criteria again on the screen when you use the service. (Check result: compares numbers reported to the cybercrime reporting system at least 3 times in the 3 months before the search · Source: minwon24.police.go.kr · Checked 2026-10-17) Alongside the search result, examine the payment steps the other party is asking you to follow.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCommon assumption\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat is easy to miss\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eHow to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common assumption\"\u003eNo scam reports means it is safe\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What is easy to miss\"\u003ePossible victims outside the search criteria\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How to check\"\u003eCheck for requests to move to an external site or send more money\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common assumption\"\u003eA customer support channel means the site is legitimate\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What is easy to miss\"\u003eThe support channel may also be fake\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How to check\"\u003eFind and access customer support directly in the official app\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common assumption\"\u003ePoints have arrived, so the sale is complete\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What is easy to miss\"\u003eThe number on the screen is not the same as actual payment\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How to check\"\u003eCheck official order and settlement records\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common assumption\"\u003eSending money once more will get the earlier payment back\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What is easy to miss\"\u003eDemands for additional deposits can continue\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How to check\"\u003eStop sending money and contact the bank and police\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Common assumption\"\u003eReaching the meeting place means it is safe\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What is easy to miss\"\u003eYou have not yet seen the actual item and seller\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"How to check\"\u003eRefuse to pay in advance before inspecting the item\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#transaction-terms-buyers-should-also-check\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"transaction-terms-buyers-should-also-check\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eTransaction terms buyers should also check\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuyers should check the item and the payment channel separately. A low price or a plausible story from the seller is not proof that a transaction is safe. An agreement to meet in person is no substitute for inspecting the actual item.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTransaction situation\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Transaction situation\"\u003eHoliday gifts or household goods\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eWhether the seller actually has the item and its condition\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Transaction situation\"\u003eGift certificates\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eWhether they can be used and under what conditions\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Transaction situation\"\u003eElectronics\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eThe model, working condition, and disclosed defects\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Transaction situation\"\u003eHigh-value items such as farm machinery\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eThe actual equipment’s condition and the other party’s authority to sell it\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Transaction situation\"\u003eTransactions with separate procedures, such as used cars and real estate\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eOwnership and the official documents required for the transaction\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Transaction situation\"\u003eA request for advance payment at an in-person meeting place\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eWhether you have seen the seller and the item yourself\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf someone gives you only an apartment complex name and says they will provide the full address after you pay, stop the transaction. You do not need to pay in advance just because you have arrived at the meeting place. Sellers should also confirm that the money has actually reached their own account before handing over the item.\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["Personal data protection","Everyday Finance","Marketplace"],"faqs":[{"question":"Can sellers also fall victim to scams in secondhand transactions?","answer":"One tactic is to lure sellers into listing their items on an external site. The fake sale proceeds are displayed as points, and the seller is then asked to pay a withdrawal fee."},{"question":"What should I do if a buyer says they will pay with points from another site?","answer":"Do not open the link or relist the item. First, check the transaction method with the original platform's official customer support."},{"question":"Should I comply if I am asked to deposit an amount equal to the sale price to make a withdrawal?","answer":"If you are asked to make a separate transfer to unlock a withdrawal, stop the transaction. On a fake site, you may be asked to send money repeatedly, with other errors cited even after you make a deposit."},{"question":"Are all secure payment fees scams?","answer":"Official secure payment services may also charge fees. Check the fee information in the official app. Assess requests to transfer money to a separate account to unlock a withdrawal separately."},{"question":"If the buyer sends me a payment screen, can I ship the item?","answer":"A screenshot alone cannot confirm that the money was actually deposited. For a bank transfer, check your own bank app. For secure payment, check the order status and shipping instructions in the official app."},{"question":"Do I need to freeze my account just because I opened a suspicious link?","answer":"Opening a link alone does not mean your account has been compromised. Check whether you entered information or installed an app. If you suspect your financial information has been exposed, ask your bank about protective measures."},{"question":"What should I do if I entered my password on a fake site?","answer":"Change your password through the real service's official channels. Change the passwords for other accounts that use the same password. You can ask the service and KISA 118 about further steps."},{"question":"Can I recover money lost to a secondhand transaction scam through a payment freeze?","answer":"A payment freeze under the special law does not apply to every secondhand transaction scam. Explain the circumstances of the transfer to your bank and the police, and check whether a payment freeze is possible. A payment freeze or a report alone does not guarantee a full refund."},{"question":"Is it safe if a police fraud history search returns no results?","answer":"That result does not guarantee safety. 경찰민원24 says it compares numbers reported at least 3 times in the past 3 months. Check the search criteria again when you use it."},{"question":"If I file a report online, can I avoid going to a police station?","answer":"You may need to appear at a police station after filing a report through ECRM. Exceptions may apply to some cases involving multiple victims. Check the filing instructions and ask the investigator in charge whether you need to appear."},{"question":"What records should I keep before reporting a scam?","answer":"Keep the sale listing, the other person's account, the full conversation, and the external site's address. Save the screens showing withdrawal errors and requests for additional deposits. Prepare transfer records showing the date and time, amount, and recipient account."},{"question":"What should I do if I am asked to pay in advance after arriving at the meeting place for an in-person transaction?","answer":"Do not send money before you have met the seller and checked the item. The fact that someone knows the meeting place or the apartment complex's name alone does not mean the transaction is safe."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://www.imaeil.com/page/view/2024100616173799010","title":"Maeil Shinmun, They suggested a 'safe transaction,' but... new online secondhand trading scams are rampant, October 6, 2024","type":"source"},{"url":"https://ecrm.police.go.kr/minwon/main","title":"National Police Agency Cybercrime Reporting System ECRM, reporting guidance and supporting documents","type":"source"},{"url":"https://minwon24.police.go.kr/main.do","title":"Police Civil Service 24, cyber fraud victim report history lookup","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.kisa.kr/118","title":"KISA Korea Internet \u0026 Security Agency, 118 consultation service","type":"source"},{"url":"https://law.go.kr/LSW/lsLinkCommonInfo.do?lsJoLnkSeq=1025193769","title":"National Law Information Center, Article 2 of the Special Act on the Prevention of Loss Caused by Telecommunications-Based Financial Fraud and Refund for Loss","type":"source"},{"url":"https://m.korea.kr/news/policyNewsView.do?newsId=148927935","title":"Korea Policy Briefing, How to Trade Secondhand Goods Safely","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":1896,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MjkyMzMsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--ee0a2bd44e877900c3328497b744309fd400637a/ai-92e10e66.webp","is_representative":true,"generation_method":"ai_photo","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"남성이 열린 택배 상자에서 카메라를 꺼내며 휴대전화를 확인한다.","caption":"의심스러운 결제 요청을 받았다면 거래를 멈추고 공식 앱에서 결제 상태를 확인하세요.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"A man lifts a camera from an open shipping box while checking his phone.","caption":"If a payment request seems suspicious, pause the sale and check the payment status in the official app.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"男性が開いた発送用の箱からカメラを取り出しながら、スマートフォンを確認している。","caption":"不審な支払い要求を受けたら、取引を止めて公式アプリで決済状況を確認しましょう。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Un hombre saca una cámara de una caja de envío abierta mientras consulta su móvil.","caption":"Ante una solicitud de pago sospechosa, detén la venta y comprueba el estado del pago en la aplicación oficial.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Seorang pria mengangkat kamera dari kotak pengiriman yang terbuka sambil memeriksa ponselnya.","caption":"Jika ada permintaan pembayaran yang mencurigakan, hentikan transaksi dan periksa status pembayaran di aplikasi resmi.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Um homem tira uma câmera de uma caixa de envio aberta enquanto confere o celular.","caption":"Diante de uma solicitação de pagamento suspeita, interrompa a venda e confira o status do pagamento no aplicativo oficial.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"一名男子從打開的寄件紙箱中拿出相機，同時查看手機。","caption":"收到可疑的付款要求時，應暫停交易並在官方應用程式確認付款狀態。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Ein Mann nimmt eine Kamera aus einem offenen Versandkarton und prüft dabei sein Handy.","caption":"Bei einer verdächtigen Zahlungsaufforderung sollte man den Verkauf stoppen und den Zahlungsstatus in der offiziellen App prüfen.","description":null}}},{"id":1897,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6MjkyMzksInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--66b73a73ee130b6d25409cd49e03d96693e904fc/ai-ffd5ff89.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_semi","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"은행 창구에서 휴대전화를 사이에 두고 직원과 상담하는 파란 코트 차림의 여성","caption":"사기 사이트에 송금했다면 은행에 계좌 보호 조치를 문의하세요.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"A woman in a blue coat speaks with a bank employee across a counter, with a phone between them","caption":"If you sent money to a scam site, ask your bank about protecting your account.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"銀行の窓口で、スマートフォンを挟んで職員と話す青いコートの女性","caption":"詐欺サイトに送金した場合は、口座を守るための措置を銀行に相談してください。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Una mujer con abrigo azul habla con una empleada bancaria; hay un móvil entre ambas","caption":"Si enviaste dinero a un sitio fraudulento, consulta con tu banco cómo proteger tu cuenta.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Perempuan berjas biru berbicara dengan pegawai bank di meja layanan, dengan ponsel di antara mereka","caption":"Jika sudah mengirim uang ke situs penipuan, tanyakan kepada bank cara melindungi rekening Anda.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Mulher de casaco azul conversa com uma funcionária do banco, com um celular entre elas no balcão","caption":"Se enviou dinheiro a um site fraudulento, consulte o banco sobre como proteger sua conta.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"穿藍色外套的女子在銀行櫃檯與行員交談，兩人之間放著手機","caption":"若已匯款至詐騙網站，請向銀行詢問如何保護帳戶。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Eine Frau im blauen Mantel spricht am Bankschalter mit einer Angestellten; zwischen ihnen liegt ein Handy","caption":"Wer Geld an eine Betrugsseite überwiesen hat, sollte bei der Bank nach Schutzmaßnahmen für das Konto fragen.","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-10-17T13:54:12+09:00","updated_at":"2026-10-17T13:54:12+09:00","license":"cc_by","translation_status":"reviewed","available_locales":["ko","en","ja","es"],"data_locales":["ko","en","ja","es","id","pt","zh-hant","de"],"url":"https://injoys.com/en/articles/secondhand-seller-scam-prevention-and-response"}