Scammers are creative. We'll give them that. But once you know their moves, you'll spot them coming from a mile away.
Here are the most common scam patterns doing the rounds on SA classifieds right now.
The fake proof of payment (POP) scam
A buyer messages you, says they've paid. They send a screenshot. You check your banking app - nothing. They say 'it takes a few hours, just release the item.' Do not. Your bank will confirm cleared funds. Wait for it.
Warning signs: urgency ('I need it today'), a POP that looks slightly off, pressure to release before the money reflects.
The WhatsApp OTP hijack
Someone contacts you about an item. Mid-conversation, they say 'I'm sending you a verification code to confirm you're a real seller.' A code arrives on your phone. You share it. Your WhatsApp account is gone.
The reality: that code is your WhatsApp login. Anyone who asks for a code sent to your phone is trying to take your account.
The rental deposit scam
A 'landlord' lists a property at a great price. They're 'overseas right now' but happy to sort the paperwork remotely. They just need a deposit to hold it. The property exists. The landlord doesn't.
Rule: never pay a deposit on a property you haven't physically visited.
The overpayment scam
A buyer offers to pay more than your asking price. They send a fake EFT for R15 000 on your R8000 item and ask you to refund the difference. You transfer R7000. Their payment bounces. You're out R7000.
Anyone offering to overpay and asking for a refund is running this play.
Use Pay Online Securely - buyers can only pay the listed price. There is no mechanism to overpay, and no refund to request.
The fake Pargo link scam
Someone sends you a WhatsApp message or email with what looks like a Pargo delivery or collection notification. It looks real. It is not. Clicking it can hand over your login details or payment information to a scammer.
The rule: never click a Pargo link sent to you by a buyer or seller. Go directly to pargo.co.za and enter your own tracking number.
The 'too good to be true' listing
A near-new car for R25 000. A MacBook for R500. A designer bag for R200. The item is real, the listing is not. Set your own price filter. If your gut says 'eish, there is no way' - trust it.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common scams on Gumtree SA?
The most common are fake proof of payment, WhatsApp OTP hijacking, rental deposit scams, and overpayment fraud, and fake Pargo or courier links. All of them involve someone asking you to act fast - slow down and check.
How do I know if a proof of payment is real?
Check your actual bank account or banking app. A real payment will reflect. A screenshot proves nothing. Never release goods until funds show in your account.
What do I do if I spot a suspicious listing?
Use the Flag button on the listing. You can also contact us by clicking
here. Your report helps protect everyone.