How to Avoid Scams When Buying and Selling Online in Laos
Most people who buy and sell online are honest. A few are not. These simple rules protect you, whether you are buying a motorbike, renting a room or selling furniture.
Warning signs
- The price is too good to be true. A new phone at half price, or a house far cheaper than its neighbours, is the most common trick.
- Pressure to pay now. "Many people want it, send a deposit today" is a classic line.
- They will not meet or show the item. Excuses about being abroad, busy or far away.
- Payment outside normal channels. Requests to pay a stranger's account, send top-up cards or use unusual methods.
- Links and codes. Never share one-time codes (OTP) or passwords, and do not open links from people you do not know.
Safe habits for buyers
- See the item before you pay. For cars and property, check the papers and the owner's ID.
- Meet in busy public places during the day, and bring a friend for expensive items.
- Pay the person whose name matches the papers, preferably by bank transfer, and keep a record.
- Keep the conversation in eTarad chat, so there is a record of what was agreed.
Safe habits for sellers
- Do not hand over the item until the money is really in your account. Fake transfer screenshots are common.
- Be careful with buyers who offer more than your asking price and ask you to send money back.
- Do not share your ID or bank details with someone you have not met and agreed a sale with.
If something feels wrong
Stop and take your time. On eTarad you can report any ad with the "Report this ad" button and block a user in chat. Our team reviews every new ad before it goes live and checks reported ads. If you have lost money, contact your bank straight away and report it to the police.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most common online selling scam?
A buyer sends a fake bank transfer screenshot and asks for the item straight away. Always check your own bank app before handing anything over.
Is it safe to pay a deposit to someone I have not met?
It is risky. Where you can, see the item first and pay the person whose name matches the papers, keeping a written record of the payment.
What should I do if a seller stops replying after I paid?
Contact your bank straight away, report the ad on eTarad with the Report button, and report it to the police with your chat history and payment record.
Does eTarad check ads?
Yes. Our team reviews every new ad before it goes live and checks ads that users report.
Read more safety tips and FAQs, or start browsing safely today.
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