Online shoppers in Thailand warned about second-hand scams

Online shopping for second-hand goods offers convenience and variety at the click of a button but it also comes with risks. Anti-Fake News Centre Thailand recently warned the public to be vigilant when purchasing second-hand items online to avoid falling victim to scams and inadvertently buying stolen goods.

The rise in popularity of online shopping has attracted not only genuine sellers but also malicious actors posing as trustworthy merchants. Anti-Fake News Centre Thailand’s recent post highlights the need for due diligence when shopping for pre-owned items, especially high-end brand-name products like bags, watches, and jewellery.

These items, often sought after for their ability to enhance the owner’s image, are typically expensive, prompting many to turn to the second-hand market for more affordable options without considering the potential risks.

To help consumers navigate the second-hand market safely, several key steps are recommended for verifying the legitimacy of the products:

• Ensure the seller or store is reputable and that the items are sourced legally. Check for reviews and ratings from previous customers.
• Ask detailed questions regarding the origin of the item. Reliable sellers should provide transparent information about how they acquired the product.
• For items that come with certificates of authenticity, always ask for these documents. This is particularly important for high-value items like luxury bags and watches.
• Look up the product codes on the official brand’s website to confirm that the item matches the description and includes all original accessories.

Given the nature of online transactions, where buyers and sellers do not meet face-to-face and the goods are not physically inspected before purchase, extra caution is necessary. It’s crucial to check the transaction history of the seller and the store to avoid purchasing stolen goods.

Falling into this trap could result in legal consequences under Thailand’s Penal Code Section 357, which addresses the offence of receiving stolen property, reported KhaoSod.