Recognize the pattern
How it starts
Calls or messages after a purchase.
The promise
A product problem qualifies you for an immediate refund.
What happens next
The supposed refund becomes code sharing, scanning, or a deposit that authorizes a charge.
Signs to watch for
- Refund requires upfront payment
- Asks you to share a banking screen
- Moves processing away from the order
Start with what you can do now
If this happened to you
End the call and screen sharing
Ask your bank to check transactions
Report the impersonator to the platform
What to save
Keep the original records. Use copies to organize the details.
- Original order
- Caller number
- Refund instructions
- Actual charges
Before you send money
- Check the order in the original platform
- Find official support yourself
- Do not give callers verification codes
These guides explain common patterns. The facts of your situation and your payment provider’s rules determine which steps are available.