Message Scams: How to Recognize and Avoid Suspicious Replies on Kijiji
Message scams occur when fraudsters send misleading or automated messages in response to your listing or an ad you are interacting with. These messages are designed to gain your trust, move the conversation outside Kijiji, or pressure you into sending money or sharing personal information.
Understanding how these scams work can help you communicate more safely on Kijiji.
How Message Scams Work
Fraudsters often send generic or pre-written messages to many users at once. At first glance, these messages may appear legitimate, but they are typically intended to initiate a fraudulent transaction or move the conversation off the platform.
Common tactics include:
- Generic messages that do not reference your listing or item
- Requests to continue the conversation via email, text message, or messaging apps
- Overpayment offers followed by refund requests
- Pressure to complete the transaction quickly or reserve the item
- Requests involving shipping, third-party pickup, or remote transactions
Be Cautious of Generic Replies
Be careful when a message does not reference specific details of your listing.
Examples include:
- “Is this still available?”
- “What’s your best price?”
- “I can pick it up immediately.”
While these messages can come from legitimate buyers, they are also frequently used by scammers to identify potential targets.
Common Types of Message Scams
Fraudulent replies can lead to several types of scams:
Overpayment Fraud
The buyer offers to pay more than the asking price and then asks you to send the difference to someone else.
The initial payment is often fraudulent or later reversed.
Off-Platform Fraud
Scammers try to move conversations to email, WhatsApp, SMS, or other apps to avoid detection and moderation systems on Kijiji.
Fake Payment Confirmations or Shipping Requests
Some scammers claim they have already sent payment or request that the item be shipped before payment is verified.
Housing and Vehicle-Related Scams
Message scams are also common in:
- Rental fraud involving fake landlords or fake deposits
- Vehicle fraud involving fake payment confirmations or fake vehicle history reports
Best Practices for Safe Communication
To reduce risk:
- Keep communication on Kijiji whenever possible
- Be cautious of users insisting on moving conversations off-platform
- Avoid quickly sharing personal or financial information
- Verify details before agreeing to a transaction
- Watch for urgency or pressure tactics
Signs of Legitimate Communication
Legitimate users typically:
- Refer directly to the item or listing
- Ask specific questions about condition, availability, or transaction details
- Are comfortable communicating through Kijiji messaging
- Do not rush the transaction
Safe Transaction Practices
When completing a transaction:
- Prefer in-person meetings when possible
- Use secure, traceable payment methods
- Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency
- Never send money to a third party on behalf of a buyer or seller
Safe Meeting Tips
If you meet someone in person:
- Choose a public, well-lit location
- Use a designated safe exchange zone if available
- Tell someone your plans or bring someone with you
- Trust your instincts and cancel if something feels suspicious
What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Message
If you think a message may be fraudulent:
- Do not share personal or financial information
- Do not send or accept payments
- Stop communicating with the sender
- Report the message or listing on Kijiji
Our Commitment to User Safety
Kijiji is committed to helping users recognize and avoid fraudulent messages through education, detection tools, and community reporting.
By learning to identify suspicious behavior and following safe communication practices, you can reduce risk and complete transactions with greater confidence.