eBay fraudsters are targeting Scots with a PS5 photo scam.
Buyers have been duped into bidding hundreds of pounds for a picture thinking they are contending for a console.
The scammers have carefully listed the item as a ‘photo’ of the sought after gaming station.
The PS5's RRP is £449 - but with such high-demand, some bold private sellers are asking for up to £1,000.
Buyers in Aberdeen were warned of the photo scam online earlier this week.
A post on the Fubar News page said: “Scam on eBay at the moment!!!
“When shopping on Ebay make sure you read the product description!
“In cases like this where it's only a 'photo' being sold you will not be able to get your money back.
“Please read the whole description."
eBay and Trading Standards have been approached for comment.
Commenting on the scam, an eBay spokesperson said: “We condemn these opportunistic sellers who are attempting to mislead other users.
“Misleading listings are not allowed on eBay. We are removing these listings from our marketplace and will be taking appropriate action against the sellers.
“For any purchase, but especially highly priced or in-demand items, buyers should exercise caution and thoroughly read the listing description.
“Buyers who have purchased one of these items could be entitled to a refund via our eBay Money Back Guarantee, provided they meet the criteria.”
A spokesperson for Chartered Institute of Trading Standards said: “This example is just another way in which despicable people are out to exploit our vulnerability and our desire to make this Christmas a better one.
“The greed of the scammer knows no end, but it is unfortunately the issue of buyer beware, especially at these times.
“I would urge people to take caution when looking at the description – do you really know what you are buying? Its easy to get swept up in the moment of it all.
“Pay by credit card for purchases over £75 and use Paypal if you can.
“We would also urge you to give feedback to the site.”
If you have been a victim of a scam please contact police on their online reporting site here.
Or for further advice contact Advice direct Scotland on 0808 800 9060
Earlier this week we told how a dad warned parents about a different PS5 scam after he was conned out of £530.
Bradley Tooth was desperate to get his hands on the console for his eight-year-old son's Christmas present.
Like many shoppers across the country, the dad-of-three struggled as PS5s sold out at many big brand stores within minutes of going on sale.
Bradley, 34, was left with no other option but to hunt for private sellers online.
He found one, but when he transferred the cash, the seller disappeared and he didn’t receive the console.
Fortunately his bank - TSB - refunded the cash after he informed them of the scam.
