𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗦𝗰𝗮𝗺 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗽: 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗟𝗼𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 ₦𝟴𝟬𝟬,𝟬𝟬𝟬 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗠𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗮 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝗿 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲

When I moved into my new apartment, I was excited — a blank canvas, ready to be filled with comfort and modern gadgets. But I didn’t have the kind of money needed to buy everything brand new. Like many young Nigerians, I turned to Facebook marketplace groups in search of second-hand electronics that wouldn’t break the bank.

It felt like the perfect plan… until it all went terribly wrong.

This is the story of how I lost ₦800,000 to an online scammer and how that painful experience inspired me to build something better — a safer online marketplace where trust is the foundation.

The Desire to Furnish My Apartment on a Budget

When I rented my new place, I had big dreams: a sleek flat-screen TV, a powerful home theater system, an air conditioner to fight the heat, and a PS5 to relax with on weekends. But reality didn’t match my dreams — at least not financially.

Buying all those items brand new would cost millions. So, I thought, “Why not go for clean, fairly used (second-hand) versions?” That’s when I turned to social media — specifically, Facebook groups where people post electronics for sale.

I joined a few Facebook marketplace communities and started scrolling. That’s when I saw it: a full bundle of gadgets — 55-inch LG TV, Bose sound system, Samsung split AC, and a brand-new-looking PlayStation 5 — all listed for just ₦800,000.

Too good to be true? I should have known better.

The Facebook Seller Who Seemed Legit

The seller seemed very convincing. His post was well-written, with clear photos and a backstory that sounded reasonable. He said he was relocating to Cyprus for study and needed to quickly sell his electronics to raise travel funds.

He even wrote things like:
"Serious buyers only. No time wasters. Items in perfect condition. I'm traveling next week!"

I messaged him privately and we had a long conversation. He was responsive, polite, and even sent me videos of the items. He told me, “To show you I’m legit, I’ll go to the park and make a video of me loading the goods into a bus, then you can pay.”

That extra effort made me trust him more. It felt like a fair deal.

The “Loading” Video That Sealed the Scam

A few hours later, true to his word, he sent a video of himself at a motor park, supposedly loading the items into a vehicle headed to my city. I saw him showing the TV and other gadgets, along with a bus conductor calling out destinations.

That was the moment I said to myself, “This is the real deal.”

Without thinking too much, I transferred ₦800,000 to the account he provided. He promised the bus would arrive in two days.

But two days came. Then three. Then a week. Still, no delivery.

I called. He didn’t pick.

I sent messages. No replies.

Then one day, when I tried calling again and introduced myself, the line went dead.

Blocked.

That was when it hit me — I had been scammed.

The Emotional Aftermath: Pain, Shame, and Hard Lessons

The feeling of betrayal was overwhelming. I sat in my room staring at the wall. ₦800,000 gone — just like that. I had worked so hard to save that money. It was everything I had at the time.

I cried. I couldn’t eat. I felt like a fool.

But after a few days, I forced myself to reflect. What did I miss? What should I have done differently? Why did I trust a stranger so easily?

I realized I ignored so many red flags:

The price was suspiciously low.
He refused payment on delivery.
He had no verified profile, no history, and no mutual friends.
I didn’t ask for references or reviews.
I sent a huge amount without any formal agreement or receipt.

It was painful, but it was a wake-up call.

The Turning Point: From Pain to Purpose

Instead of letting the scam defeat me, I started thinking differently.

What if I could prevent this from happening to others? What if there was a safer way to buy and sell second-hand goods online — one where every seller was verified, and scammers could be filtered out?

That’s when the idea hit me: Why not build my own online marketplace, one that prioritizes trust, transparency, and security?

I didn't have all the skills yet. But I had a vision — and the motivation of a painful lesson to push me forward.

Building a Scam-Proof Marketplace: My First Steps

I began researching what makes online marketplaces safe. I looked at platforms like Jiji, OLX, and Facebook groups. I realized the missing piece was identity verification. Anyone could create a profile and post fake items — there were no checks.

So I started building my own platform with these principles:

1. Identity Verification for Sellers

Every seller must submit a valid government-issued ID, BVN-linked details, and complete a verification process before being allowed to list items.

2. Payment-on-Delivery Only

Buyers are encouraged to inspect the product in person or use a trusted delivery system that allows for inspection before payment.

3. Escrow System (Coming Soon)

We’re working on an escrow payment system where money is held securely until the buyer confirms receipt of the goods.

4. User Reviews and Ratings

All buyers can rate sellers, and suspicious or poorly rated accounts are reviewed and, if necessary, banned.

5. Education for Buyers

We post regular tips, stories (like mine), and warnings to help users avoid common scams.

Early Success and Growing Trust

The response so far has been amazing. I started small — just a Telegram and WhatsApp group at first. Then we built a simple website and now we’re working on an app.

What surprised me most was how many people reached out to share similar stories. Some had lost ₦20,000, some lost over ₦1 million. Many were just grateful that someone was doing something about it.

Buyers now feel more confident, and sellers who are genuine love the transparency because it helps them build a loyal customer base.

Key Lessons I Learned from Getting Scammed

Looking back, I don’t regret the scam — I regret not learning sooner. But I’ve gained wisdom and experience that I want to share, especially for anyone buying online:

1. If It Looks Too Good to Be True, It Probably Is

Cheap prices are often bait. Always do due diligence.

2. Never Pay Before Delivery Unless the Platform is Verified and Trusted

No matter how convincing the seller sounds, don’t send money upfront to individuals on Facebook or WhatsApp without using a secure payment method.

3. Always Video-Call the Seller

If you’re buying expensive items, insist on a live video call to confirm the identity of the person and the product.

4. Ask for References and Past Customers

Legit sellers often have returning customers or previous transactions you can verify.

5. Document Everything

Keep screenshots, payment proof, chats, and phone numbers in case you need to report or trace them.

Why Nigeria Needs More Trust-Based Platforms

The internet has opened up amazing opportunities for trade, especially in a country like Nigeria where youth unemployment is high. But scams are killing trust — and trust is the foundation of digital marketplaces.

If we want the gig economy and online commerce to grow in Nigeria, we need safer platforms. We need innovators who aren’t just focused on profits but also protection.

That’s what I’m building — and I’m proud of the progress so far.

What You Can Do to Protect Yourself Online

Before I wrap up, here are a few final practical steps you can take to stay safe when buying or selling online:

Use verified platforms like Paystack Storefront, Konga, or Jumia when possible.
Avoid sellers who are in a hurry or use emotional stories to rush you.
Trust your gut — if something feels off, walk away.
Report scam pages to Facebook or Instagram to prevent others from falling victim.
Join safe communities that have real admins and identity checks.

Turning the Pain into a Mission: More Than Just a Business

This experience didn’t just teach me how to avoid online scams. It reshaped how I view trust, accountability, and digital commerce in Nigeria.

The more I researched, the more I realized that scams are not just about greed — they also thrive because of a lack of infrastructure and verification systems. Many online platforms in Nigeria allow just about anyone to sign up and sell, without checks. Scammers exploit that weakness.

That’s why I didn’t want my platform to be just another “buy-and-sell” group. I wanted to create a system built on three non-negotiable values:

Real Identity
Transparent Communication
Buyer Protection

Challenges I Faced While Building the Platform

It wasn’t smooth sailing. Building a marketplace — even a simple one — came with its own challenges:

1. Convincing Sellers to Get Verified

Some sellers were initially reluctant to submit IDs or complete the verification process. They said things like “Why should I show my BVN or NIN?” But I explained to them that this was for their own benefit — to earn trust and attract real buyers.

2. Building Trust from Scratch

People were skeptical. I was a victim of a scam, now starting a new online platform — some assumed I might be a scammer myself. I had to be very transparent, show my face, use my real name, and constantly share my story to build credibility.

3. Technical and Financial Hurdles

I couldn’t afford a top-tier web developer at first, so I used platforms like Flutterwave Store, Selar, and eventually WordPress with plugins to create the first version. With time, I found a local developer who believed in my idea and helped build a basic app prototype.

More Signs You Might Be Dealing With a Scammer

As I interviewed others who had been scammed online, I found patterns. Here are more red flags people often ignore:

1. Refusal to Use Escrow Services

Scammers always avoid any system that delays them from collecting money immediately.

2. Poor Grammar or Rushed Language

Many scammers use broken English or type in a hurry — as if they are under pressure.

3. Too Many Offers at Once

Some scammers will offer you multiple items at one ridiculous price. It’s a tactic to overwhelm your logic and rush you into payment.

4. No Online Footprint

Real sellers often have at least some digital presence — maybe past customers, reviews, social media, or WhatsApp statuses. Scammers usually don’t.

Why You Should Share Your Scam Story

One of the hardest parts for me was telling people I had been scammed. There’s a kind of shame that comes with it — like you were stupid or careless.

But scammers thrive in silence. The more we hide our stories, the more others fall for the same tricks.

That’s why I’m sharing this blog post. Not for pity — but to create awareness and remind people that you can turn your loss into impact.

What Makes a Trusted Online Platform?

If you're looking to build or use an online platform for buying and selling, here’s what I believe every trusted site should have:

Feature	Why It Matters
Verified Seller IDs	Confirms you’re dealing with a real person
Live Chat or Call Option	Helps you assess if the seller is genuine
Escrow or Payment-on-Delivery	Protects your money before you receive goods
Transparent Reviews	Shows seller history and reliability
Responsive Admins	Quick support in case of disputes
Active Scam Reporting System	A way to flag suspicious users easily

These aren’t “nice to haves” — they are essential in Nigeria’s online space, where trust is often missing.

My Advice to Anyone Thinking of Buying Online

If you’re planning to buy second-hand goods online, especially on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, WhatsApp groups, or Telegram channels, please keep the following in mind:

Avoid Making Emotional Purchases
Scammers know how to pull emotional triggers: “I’m traveling soon”, “My mother is sick”, “Flash sale for today only.” Stay calm.
Use Video Calls and Live Demonstrations
Ask the seller to show you the item on a live call — turn it on, walk around it, prove it works.
Never Rush Transactions
Any seller that pressures you to pay quickly is a red flag.
Ask for Proof of Delivery
If they claim to be sending the item through a bus or logistics service, ask for the driver’s contact, waybill number, and tracking info.
Report and Expose Scammers
After I got scammed, I started posting about it publicly. You won’t believe how many people reached out, saying, “That same guy tried to scam me too!”

From Victim to Visionary: My Ongoing Mission

I still remember the night I got blocked. I felt powerless. But today, I feel empowered. I’ve turned that moment of defeat into a mission.

The marketplace I’m building is still growing — we’re adding categories, recruiting moderators, and working on partnerships with logistics companies for verified delivery. I plan to expand into:

Verified freelancer listings (to avoid hiring fake service providers)
A scammer database (with names, numbers, and reports)
Small business promotions (so legit sellers can reach more buyers)

I’m not doing this alone — I now have a small team who believe in the vision. Every week, we onboard more users, and every successful transaction reminds me: this is worth it.

Use My Mistake as a Shield

I was once like you — looking for a deal, trusting too easily, and paying the price.

Let my story be a lesson. Let my marketplace be a safer space. And let your future purchases be smarter, more cautious, and scam-proof.

We live in a time when trust is currency. If you’re building or using an online platform, remember this: people aren’t just buying products — they’re buying peace of mind.

So protect your money, protect your dignity, and if something doesn’t feel right — walk away.

What I Wish I Knew Before Making That Transfer

Looking back, there were so many small signs I ignored. The price was too good to be true. The seller didn’t allow payment on delivery. He had no social proof. But in the moment, all I could think about was how good the deal sounded.

If I had known then what I know now, I would have done things differently. Here’s what I now advise everyone to do before buying online, especially from platforms like Facebook Marketplace, WhatsApp groups, or unknown e-commerce pages:

10 Practical Safety Tips for Buying Items Online in Nigeria

1. Insist on Payment on Delivery (POD)

This remains the safest option for both parties. If the seller is truly legit, they won’t mind using POD.

👉 Learn how Pay on Delivery works

2. Check Seller's Online Presence

Search for their name, phone number, or email address on Google and TrueCaller. Also check platforms like Nairaland or Scamwatch Nigeria to see if anyone has reported them.

3. Use Verified Platforms with Escrow Features

Platforms like Jiji Nigeria and Konga now offer verified sellers and delivery with escrow features. Avoid random sellers with no oversight.

4. Avoid Rush Decisions

A common scam tactic is FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). They’ll say, “Someone else is interested,” or “This price is for today only.” Don't rush—take your time.

5. Ask for a Live Video Call

Request a video call where the seller shows you the product, the packaging, and the ID they'll use to waybill it. Still, do not pay unless you trust the platform.

6. Use Platforms That Offer Buyer Protection

If you’re buying through a website or app, make sure it has refund policies or dispute resolution. Amazon, Konga, and PayPorte offer buyer protection. Facebook and WhatsApp do not—that’s where many scams happen.

👉 Read Facebook’s marketplace safety tips

7. Verify Logistics Companies

If a seller says they’ve sent your item through a bus park or courier, always get the driver’s number, the tracking number (if applicable), and verify from the park itself. Some scammers even fake waybills.

👉 Track GIG logistics deliveries here

8. Avoid Sharing Personal Bank Details

Even if you're buying, never share unnecessary details like your BVN, debit card pin, or OTPs. Scammers often use purchases to gain more access.

9. Don’t Trust Screenshots

Scammers often send fake payment alerts or delivery receipts. Always check your bank app or contact the logistics company directly.

10. Report and Name Scammers

If you get scammed, don’t suffer in silence. Report the number to TrueCaller, post warnings on Twitter (X), and submit reports to:

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let One Mistake Stop You

Losing ₦800,000 to a scammer could have broken me. But instead, it built something better inside me — resilience, purpose, and a business idea that now helps others avoid the same trap.

Today, I look back with a mix of pain and pride. Pain because of what I lost. Pride because of what I’ve created from that loss.

If you’ve been scammed before, don’t let the shame silence you. Speak up. Learn from it. And maybe, like me, you’ll build something that changes lives.