Purchase Scams

At Scam Claims, we assist victims and nationwide who paid for goods or services that were counterfeit, misdescribed, or never delivered.

With fake websites, social marketplace listings, and insecure payment requests on the rise, purchase fraud is affecting more consumers each year.

We explain your legal position, gather the required evidence, and pursue refunds or compensation wherever appropriate. Working with seasoned solicitors and fraud specialists, we coordinate with banks, platforms, regulators, and police to maximise the likelihood of recovery.

What Are The Most Common Type Of Purchase Scams ?

The most common types of purchase scams include:

• Online shopping scams – Fake websites or social media sellers offering goods that never arrive.

• Auction site fraud – Fraudulent listings on platforms like eBay, often involving high-demand products.

• Counterfeit goods – Sellers passing off fake items as genuine branded products.

• Vehicle scams – False advertisements for cars or vans requiring upfront deposits.

• Pet scams – Fraudulent listings for animals that do not exist.

• Holiday and rental scams – Fake accommodation offers or travel bookings.

• Professional-looking setups – Scam sites with logos, testimonials, and contact details designed to appear legitimate.

Can I Recover Money From a Purchase Scam?

Victims can recover money lost to purchase scams. Recovery depends largely on the payment method used. Victims who paid by bank transfer may be eligible to claim under the Authorised Push Payment (APP) fraud rules if the bank failed to identify suspicious activity.

Payments made by credit card may qualify for protection under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, while debit card payments may be covered by chargeback. Although not all funds are recoverable, experienced solicitors can pursue multiple legal avenues to maximise the chance of compensation.

Contact Scam Claim Solicitors for a consultation on recovering money lost to fraudulent purchases.

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How Do Lawyers In Coordinate With Banks, Platforms, And Regulators To Reverse Payments?

Lawyers handling purchase scams work with banks, regulators, and platforms to trace payments and recover funds.

This includes submitting complaints to the Financial Ombudsman Service, engaging with the FCA where regulated services are involved, and escalating matters to Action Fraud.

By applying legal pressure and presenting thorough documentation, solicitors increase the likelihood of recovering money that victims would otherwise be unable to reclaim.

How Do Bogus Purchases In Typically Play Out?

Purchase scams affect victims who believe they are buying genuine products or services, only to later discover that the goods never arrive or are not as described.

The impact is both financial and emotional: victims lose money on false transactions and often experience stress, anxiety, and a loss of confidence in online shopping and legitimate retailers.

What Are Average Versus High-Value Losses From Shopping Scams Reported Around ?

The financial losses linked to purchase scams, according to Action Fraud reports, average around £1,000 per case, though many victims lose several thousand, particularly in high-value fraud involving vehicles, technology, or luxury goods.

Losses are often spread across multiple payments, as fraudsters may request deposits followed by additional transfers. Because these scams frequently target individuals using online marketplaces and auction sites, the financial damage can be significant and, in some cases, financially crippling.

Can Teams Pursue Sellers Abroad And Recover Through UK Channels?

Purchase scam solicitors regularly handle cross-border and online fraud cases. Many online sellers are based overseas, making recovery more complex, but experienced solicitors know how to target UK financial institutions and platforms that processed the payments.

In cases involving international sellers, solicitors may also liaise with foreign regulators or payment providers. Their expertise in handling online and global fraud gives victims a stronger chance of recovery.

Contact Scam Claim Solicitors for a consultation on recovering money lost to fraudulent purchases.

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Can Victims Bring Claims In On A No Win, No Fee Basis For Purchase Scams?

Our solicitors handling purchase scam claims offer no-win, no-fee arrangements. This allows victims to pursue recovery without paying upfront solicitor’s fees, making access to justice more affordable.

Under this arrangement, solicitors are only paid if compensation is successfully secured, either as a percentage of the recovered funds or as an agreed fixed fee.

What Documents And Steps Are Needed To Start A Purchase Scam Claim In ?

The process of pursuing a purchase scam claim begins with an initial consultation where the victim provides evidence such as bank statements, transaction records, advertisements, and communications with the fraudster.

Solicitors then assess the claim’s strength and determine whether to proceed against the bank, payment platform, or fraudster directly. Once prepared, the claim may be supported by regulatory complaints. Many cases are resolved through negotiation, but some may proceed to court if necessary to recover losses.

What Legal Strategies Support Victims Of Undelivered Or Misdescribed Goods In ?

Solicitors provide a wide range of legal support for victims of purchase scams, including:

• Tailored legal advice – Reviewing the case and advising on the most effective recovery strategy.

• Evidence gathering – Collecting transaction records, advertisements, and communications with the fraudster.

• Claim preparation – Drafting and submitting claims against banks, platforms, or negligent parties.

• Action against institutions – Challenging banks or platforms that failed in their duty of care.

• Civil litigation – Taking legal action against fraudsters or connected businesses when possible.

• Regulatory complaints – Assisting victims in filing cases with the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) or relevant authorities.

• Liaising with law enforcement – Reporting scams to Action Fraud and other regulators to strengthen the case.