Buying on Vinted? The Paper plate scam and what to look for.

pulliptears

This may be a bit like preaching to the choir, but this little ruse has suddenly become a lot more common so its worth repeating.  Settle in...

Vinted is, for the most part, a pretty safe platform for buyers and sellers, if, like all these type of sites you keep your wits about you.  Recently people have been receiving paper plated rather than the items they ordered.  This is how vinted and the scam works.

Selling
selling on the platform is as easy as uploading a photo or two.  In the listing process the seller is given what Vinted think is the best postal option for the item, this can be overruled though if the seller thinks it's wrong.  The buyer pays postage and the seller is never out a penny for using Vinted.
When the item sells the seller is, in most cases, emailed a postage label that has been pre paid for by the buyer.  They print this out, stick it to the parcel and in most cases then deposit the parcel in one of the parcel lockers dotted around the country.  When the buyer receives the item they then have 2 days to raise any issues with their item, otherwise the seller gets the money released and the transaction is complete.
Buyer can now leave feedback, though if they don't Vinted will automatically provide a comment to say the transaction was completed.  

The Scam
Seller will often overrule the postage to the cheapest option.  Buyer sees an utter bargain of an item, clicks buy, choses the cheap postage and waits.  Some days later they receive an envelope, with the printed Vinted label attached by the seller, containing just a paper plate.  At this point the buyer can raise a dispute, but, if like many at this time of year you're away and don't see the post for 2 days after your delivery is marked the seller gets their cash released and you are out your money.
Imagine selling dozens of items, sending out dozens of packages of paper plates that aren't costing you a thing.  It's worth a shot because if a couple of those buyers don't pick up their mail you're in the money.

How to spot it
Trainers seem to be the con of choice right now.  Click on your sellers 'wardrobe'.  Do they have several pairs? Are they all different sizes?  Are all the photos taken in different locations?  These are the giveaways.
Electrical Goods.  Vinted isn't just clothing.  Headphones are also a popular scam.  You don't get Bose headphones at that price.  Wake up!
Clothing in general.  Lots of designer items, again in lots of sizes?  This isn't someone having a clear out.  This is either a con or a fake seller.
Photos.  Most sellers will snap their photos in the same positions in their home or use the same props.  If they look wildly different, avoid.
What about feedback?  Do they have any?  Remember, Vinted gives auto feedback for completed transactions so no feedback at all indicates a new seller.
Is there a photo of the seller and a little bio?  Most sellers will have an about and a picture.  No pic? No bio?  Give them a miss.
Whats the sellers name?  Is it a series of letters and numbers?  Thats unusual in itself too.

Still want to buy?  Message your seller.  Ask for further photos, preferably with their username on a piece of paper.  A good, genuine seller will be happy to do this for a customer.

In summary 

If the price looks to good to be true then it more than likely is.
NEVER order a Vinted item if you are going to be away around it's delivery time.
ALWAYS research your seller.