How to Verify an Online Seller Before You Pay

Verification checklist

1. Check the directory and unresolved cases. Search the seller's handle in the ScamAlert.pk brand directory — a track record of resolved disputes is a good sign; an unresolved case on record is not.
2. Look at account history. A page created a few weeks ago, with a sudden spike in followers or engagement, is harder to trust than one with a longer, consistent history.
3. Search outside the platform. Look up the seller's name or handle plus "scam" or "review" on Google — problems often surface outside the seller's own page, where they can't delete the comment.
4. Prefer cash on delivery. COD shifts the risk back to the seller. If it's offered, use it, especially for a first order.
5. Never pay a personal account. A request to transfer to an individual's bank account or mobile wallet, instead of a registered business account, is one of the strongest single warning signs — it makes the payment far harder to trace or dispute later.
6. Ask for proof. A legitimate seller can usually share a business registration, a physical address, or a GST/NTN number on request. Hesitation or a vague answer is itself information.
7. Start small. Place a smaller test order before committing to a large one with a seller you haven't used before.

One red flag is enough

A seller can look professional — a polished page, a large follower count, genuine-looking photos — and still fail on one of these points. Treat any single red flag above, especially payment to a personal account or a refusal to offer COD, as reason enough to slow down, regardless of how convincing everything else looks.

Already sent payment and something's wrong?

Keep your order details, payment proof, and any messages with the seller, then file a report on ScamAlert.pk. The seller gets a 72-hour window to respond before the report becomes part of the public record.