How to Avoid Scams on Classified Ads in Sri Lanka
Learn the common scam patterns on Sri Lankan classified sites — advance-fee requests, fake overseas sellers, OTP scams — and how to protect yourself on Maaru.lk.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1
Learn the common scam scripts
Watch for: a fake 'customs release fee' for a parcel, a job offer asking for a 'registration fee', or an unusually cheap imported vehicle needing an 'agent fee' paid upfront.
- 2
Check the photos
Watermarked, overly polished, or reused stock photos are a red flag. Ask the seller for a fresh photo with today's date or a specific angle to confirm they actually have the item.
- 3
Check the seller's history
A brand-new account with a single listing and no reviews carries more risk than a seller with an ID Verified or Trusted Seller badge and a review history.
- 4
Never share OTPs or PINs
No legitimate buyer or seller on Maaru.lk will ever need your one-time password, ATM PIN, or full card number. Sharing these enables account-takeover scams, not purchases.
- 5
Insist on an in-person viewing
For vehicles, property, and electronics, always arrange to see the item before any money changes hands. A seller who refuses is the biggest warning sign of all.
Pro Tips
- ✓If a seller refuses a phone or video call and will only chat by text, be extra cautious.
- ✓Use Maaru.lk's built-in Chat and Call first — avoid being rushed onto an unknown third-party app.
- ✓Report suspicious listings via the feedback widget; every report is reviewed and can get a listing pulled quickly.
- ✓Genuine sellers rarely pressure you to 'decide right now' — urgency is a classic scam tactic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Maaru.lk manually check every ad?
All ads pass automated moderation (rule-based checks plus AI text and image scanning) before going live, and users can flag anything that slips through.
I already paid an advance and the seller disappeared — what can I do?
Report the listing and seller immediately via the feedback tool so others aren't affected. Maaru.lk cannot reverse a private bank transfer, which is why viewing the item in person before paying is strongly recommended.
How can I tell a real seller from a scammer quickly?
Look for the ID Verified and Trusted Seller badges, check their review history, and be wary of any listing that avoids calls or pushes for instant advance payment.