Someone on OLX says they are in the army and selling cheap. Is it a scam?
Yes, this is one of the best-known marketplace scams in India. The "soldier" has a cheap vehicle, phone or furniture, is posted somewhere far away or being transferred, sends an army ID card photo, and asks for an advance or a "transport charge" before delivery – which never comes.
The same script is used by "CRPF", "BSF", "navy" and "air force" sellers, and in the mirror version by army "buyers" who send QR codes. The uniform photos and ID cards are stolen from real personnel.
Signs and what to do
- A price far below the market and a seller who cannot meet because of a posting.
- An ID card photo sent unasked, to build trust.
- A request for an advance, a token, transport or "army canteen" charges before you see the item.
- Never pay anything before seeing the item in person; meet in a public place.
- Report the listing on the platform and, if you paid, call your bank and 1930.
Frequently asked questions
- The ID card looked genuine. How can it be fake?
- Stolen or edited ID card photos are standard in this scam. Veritaza's check 7 looks for forgery signs but never says an ID is genuine.
Want to know if there are warning signs about the person you are talking to? Veritaza checks the photos, messages, mobile number, email ID, name and ID card, for ₹289.
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