How do I check if an online seller is a scammer?

Check the seller's bank account and phone number in SemakMule. Also check whether the account name matches the shop name, and look for reviews from real buyers. A clean record does not guarantee the seller is honest.

The seller wants full payment first by bank transfer. Is that safe?

It is risky, especially with a seller you do not know. Where possible, use the e-commerce platform's payment system or pay on face-to-face handover. Direct transfers to personal accounts are hard to claw back if it turns out to be fraud.

I paid and the seller blocked me. What now?

Keep all evidence, then call 997 or make a police report and tell your bank quickly. Your report also helps get the seller's account into police records, which protects other buyers.

Guide

Online shopping scams: fake sellers on social media

An online shopping scam happens when a fake seller on social media or WhatsApp takes payment but never delivers. Before paying, check the seller's bank account and phone number in SemakMule, use the e-commerce platform's own payment system where possible, and avoid direct transfers to personal accounts for items that are suspiciously cheap. A clean record is not a guarantee.

Check a bank account / phone →

Already transferred money? Call 997 (NSRC) now — 24 hours. How to report a scam →

Common fake seller tactics

Prices far below market, for example phones, concert tickets or household essentials.
Pressure to pay in full immediately because of 'limited stock'.
Asking you to pay outside the e-commerce platform by bank transfer.
Using product photos and testimonials stolen from other sellers.
Asking for extra charges after payment, such as insurance or shipping.

Check before you pay

Check the seller's bank account and phone number in SemakMule.
Make sure the account holder's name matches the seller or shop name.
Use in-platform payment with buyer protection.
For large purchases, choose a face-to-face handover in a public place.

If the item never arrives

Keep screenshots of the listing, the chat and the transfer receipt. If you paid within an e-commerce platform, file a dispute there. If you transferred directly to the seller's account, call 997 or make a police report and tell your bank. There is no guarantee of recovery, but an early report helps.

Frequently asked questions

How do I check if an online seller is a scammer?: Check the seller's bank account and phone number in SemakMule. Also check whether the account name matches the shop name, and look for reviews from real buyers. A clean record does not guarantee the seller is honest.
The seller wants full payment first by bank transfer. Is that safe?: It is risky, especially with a seller you do not know. Where possible, use the e-commerce platform's payment system or pay on face-to-face handover. Direct transfers to personal accounts are hard to claw back if it turns out to be fraud.
I paid and the seller blocked me. What now?: Keep all evidence, then call 997 or make a police report and tell your bank quickly. Your report also helps get the seller's account into police records, which protects other buyers.

Short guides to the scam tactics common in Malaysia, how to check bank accounts, phone numbers and licences, and what to do right away if you have been hit.