How to Spot and Avoid Online Marketplace Scams in Jamaica

· Splash Jamaica · Job search and networking

Buying and selling online is quick and convenient, but it also attracts fraudsters. Jamaica's police, regulators and consumer bodies have all issued warnings in the past year, and the same patterns crop up again and again. Knowing them is the best protection, whether you are buying a fridge in Portmore or selling a car in Mandeville.

The scams Jamaican authorities keep warning about

Fake vehicle sellers and "customs brokers". In January 2026 the police warned about people posing as customs brokers who offer vehicles online, often to Jamaicans living overseas, and take payment for cars that never arrive (Jamaica Gleaner, 3 January 2026; Jamaica Information Service). In a separate case, a teenager was charged after a buyer paid for a Toyota Voxy advertised online and never received it (reported by Abeng News).

Scams aimed at vehicle sellers. In December 2025 the Jamaica Constabulary Force warned of a scam targeting people selling vehicles and ride-share drivers (Jamaica Observer, 1 December 2025). Sellers should be just as careful as buyers.

Fake property and rental listings. The Real Estate Board has warned that unlicensed people are posting rental adverts and demanding deposits or "viewing fees" before any proper arrangement is in place. The National Housing Trust and the realtors' association have also warned about fraudulent social media accounts (Jamaica Gleaner, 13 June 2026).

"Guaranteed return" investments. The Financial Services Commission (FSC) regularly names people and companies that are not licensed to offer investments. In October 2026 it warned that a "Crypto Trading & Partnership License" circulating on Telegram and Instagram, claiming to come from the FSC, was not genuine (Jamaica Gleaner, 26 October 2026). The FSC reminds the public that promises of guaranteed or very large, quick returns are common features of fraud.

Warning signs to look out for

Simple checks that protect you

  1. See the item before paying. For vehicles and property, inspect in person or send someone you trust.
  2. Verify licences with the regulator. Check real estate dealers on the Real Estate Board's public register and investment firms with the FSC.
  3. Check documents with the issuing body. For a vehicle, check the registration and title with Tax Administration Jamaica before money changes hands.
  4. Use traceable payment. Bank transfers between named accounts leave a record; cash handed to a stranger does not.
  5. Search the seller's name and phone number. Previous complaints or repeated adverts can be revealing.
  6. Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, walk away.

If you have been targeted

Report fraud to your nearest police station or the JCF. Report unlicensed investment schemes to the FSC, and consumer disputes to the Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC), which also advises shoppers to check reviews and seller credibility before buying online (Jamaica Information Service). If an advert on Splash Jamaica looks suspicious, use the report option so our moderators can review it.

Sources

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