In recent months, the Spanish private online sales market has come under threat due to a surge in fraudulent schemes that bypass official platform channels. For many residents, this is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a real risk of losing substantial amounts of money or valuable possessions. As digital services become increasingly popular, ensuring transaction security is taking on added importance.
Wallapop, one of the most popular platforms for buying and selling used goods in Spain, has issued a warning relevant to anyone who has ever made a deal through the app. According to platform representatives, the main danger arises when one party suggests completing payment or shipping outside the official system. At first glance, this may seem like a convenient and quick way to arrange a deal, but in reality, it strips both sides of the protection guaranteed by the platform.
The scam scenario is often repeated: the seller or buyer insists on switching the conversation to third-party messengers, offers to pay directly, or tries to arrange delivery without involving Wallapop. This is sometimes accompanied by a sense of urgency or convincing explanations that seem harmless. However, once the deal moves outside the app, getting your money or goods back becomes nearly impossible. That’s why experts advise not to give in to persuasion and never agree to alternative payment or delivery methods.
Scammers’ tactics
Another common threat is phishing messages sent via email or messengers. Scammers disguise themselves as Wallapop support and send links that lead to fake websites. Such emails typically ask users to confirm a sale or enter their personal and banking information. If the user clicks on the link and submits their data, the attackers gain access to their accounts and can steal money. These schemes have already led to significant losses among Spanish users.
Situations become especially dangerous when scammers act quickly and persistently, forcing victims to make decisions without thinking. Sometimes they use psychological tricks to gain trust or create a sense of urgency. As a result, many people let down their guard and make costly mistakes.
Wallapop emphasizes that it never contacts users through private messages or third-party services. All official notifications are sent only within the app. This rule helps distinguish genuine messages from fakes and avoid falling into scams.
Safety recommendations
To minimize risks, experts recommend following a few simple but effective rules. Do not share personal or banking information outside the app, even if the person you are communicating with seems trustworthy. Any requests to make payments or send goods through third-party services should raise suspicion. It’s better to refuse the deal than to risk your money or property.
It is also important to be cautious with any links received by email or messenger. If a message asks you to enter your login, password, or card details, it is most likely a scam attempt. In such cases, it is recommended to stop communicating immediately and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
The platform claims that most suspicious ads and profiles are blocked before they become visible to users. However, it is impossible to eliminate the risk entirely, so much of the responsibility for transaction security lies with the participants themselves.
Trends and consequences
In recent years, Spain has seen an increase in online platform fraud cases. Criminals often use schemes involving money transfers outside official services. Such incidents have been recorded not only on Wallapop but also on other popular classified platforms. In some cases, even experienced users have fallen victim, not expecting deception from seemingly ordinary transactions.
The emergence of new fraud methods is prompting platforms to strengthen security measures and inform clients about potential risks. Nevertheless, scammers continue to look for vulnerabilities, coming up with increasingly sophisticated ways to deceive. As a result, Spanish users have to be especially vigilant when conducting any operations online.
Looking back at recent cases, similar schemes have also been spotted on other platforms, where scammers suggested moving conversations to third-party apps or sent fake links to confirm transactions. In some regions of the country, special campaigns were even launched to raise awareness about these risks. Despite efforts by platforms and the police, the problem remains relevant and the number of victims continues to grow.
