SMS and Text Message Scams on Kijiji: How to Recognize and Avoid Fraud
SMS scams occur when fraudsters send text messages to Kijiji users to initiate fraudulent transactions. These messages are often designed to move communication off the platform, bypass safety systems, and trick users into sending money or personal information.
Understanding how these scams work can help you stay safe when buying or selling on Kijiji.
How SMS Scams Typically Work
Fraudsters often send unsolicited text messages in response to your listing. These messages usually encourage you to switch to email or external communication platforms.
A typical scam message may look like this:
“Am interested in item, please email me at johndoe3275@gmail.com as I’m at work.”
Once contact is established, the scammer may begin building trust and attempting to move the transaction forward under false pretences.
Warning Signs of SMS Scams
Be cautious if you notice any of the following:
Requests to Move Off Kijiji
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Asking you to communicate via email or messaging apps immediately
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Refusal to use Kijiji’s messaging system
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Claims that they are “not able to reply on the platform”
Suspicious Phone Numbers or Messages
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International or unfamiliar area codes
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Poor grammar or inconsistent writing style
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Random or suspicious email addresses included in messages
Unrealistic Transaction Behaviour
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Offers to pay more than asking price
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Requests for shipping or courier pickup without inspection
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Pressure to act quickly or secure the item
Common Scam Narrative Patterns
After initial contact, scammers often use fabricated stories such as:
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Claiming to work on oil rigs, ships, or military deployments
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Saying they are travelling abroad or working for charities
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Stating they cannot meet in person under any circumstances
These stories are designed to explain why they cannot complete a normal in-person transaction.
How the Scam Works
A typical SMS scam escalates in stages:
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Initial contact via text message
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Move conversation off-platform (email or messaging apps)
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Offer to pay more than asking price to build trust
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Claim they will send a courier or agent to collect the item
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Send fake payment confirmations (often PayPal-style emails)
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Request reimbursement via wire transfer or untraceable payment methods
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Use pressure or fake threats to force payment completion
These payment confirmations are not legitimate. No real funds have been transferred.
Protect Yourself from SMS Scams
To reduce risk:
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Avoid sharing your phone number publicly when possible
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Do not move conversations off Kijiji
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Never rely on email screenshots or payment confirmations alone
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Verify payments directly in your official account (e.g., PayPal login)
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Be cautious of urgency or pressure tactics
Safe Transaction Practices
When completing transactions:
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Meet in person whenever possible
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Inspect items before accepting payment
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Use secure, traceable payment methods (e.g., cash or Interac e-Transfer)
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Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency
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Never send money to unknown third parties
What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious SMS
If you receive a suspicious message:
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Do not respond or continue communication
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Do not click links or share personal information
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Preserve messages as evidence if needed
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Report the message through your mobile provider (forward to 7726 / SPAM where supported)
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Report the listing or user on Kijiji
Our Commitment to User Safety
Kijiji is committed to protecting users from SMS and off-platform scams by detecting suspicious activity, educating users, and promoting safe transaction practices. By staying on-platform and verifying all payments directly, users can significantly reduce their risk of fraud.