Online buying and selling has become a daily habit for many Sri Lankans. It saves time, cuts cost, and makes life easier. However, to stay truly safe, you need to follow a few simple ikman safety tips so scammers can’t take advantage of your money or personal details.
This guide walks you through the most common scams that happen around online marketplaces and how you can avoid them when using ikman.
1. Fake Payment Links
Scammers sometimes send links that look similar to ikman, asking you to “make a payment,” “verify your account,” or “confirm details.” These links usually come through SMS, chat apps, email, or social media.
How to stay safe:
- Don’t click links sent by strangers.
- Always check the domain carefully. The official site is ikman.lk.
- If unsure, manually type ikman.lk into your browser instead of using the link.
2. Advance Payment Requests
One of the most common scams is convincing you to pay before seeing the product. You may hear lines like “I’ll send the item once you pay” or “Send advance money for courier charges.”
Avoid this trap:
- Don’t move to private channels (WhatsApp, bank transfers) to complete a deal.
- Don’t send money before you inspect the product in person — especially for high-value items like phones, laptops, property, or vehicles.
- Keep communication within ikman whenever possible.
3. QR Code Scams
Scammers may send QR codes claiming it will let you “receive money” or “verify your details.”
Important:
- Scanning random QR codes can expose your banking or login details.
- ikman will never ask you to scan QR codes for payments or verification.
4. Verification Link + OTP Fraud
You may receive messages saying “your account is on hold” or “verification needed” along with a link. They may also ask for your OTP.
Never share:
- OTPs
- Passwords
- PINs
- Verification codes
ikman will never ask for these through phone, SMS, WhatsApp, or social media.
5. Fake Job Offers
Fraudsters sometimes pretend to be employers and offer fake job opportunities. They then ask for money such as:
- registration fees
- training or uniform charges
- file-opening fees
Remember: A real employer will not ask for money before an interview or appointment letter.
6. Token Money for Property
You might be asked to pay “token money” to reserve a house or apartment.
Stay cautious:
- Visit the property in person.
- Check ownership documents and approvals.
- Verify the seller’s identity.
- Get legal help if you’re unsure.
7. Fake Warranty & ‘Official Dealer’ Claims
Some sellers falsely claim to be “brand-authorized.”
Before paying:
- Check warranty cards, dealer stamps, service centre details, and invoices.
- Confirm the seller through the brand’s official website or hotline.
8. Deals That Look Too Good
If a product is being sold far below normal market price, be careful. It may be a scam or the item may not exist.
Be alert when a seller:
- Refuses to meet in person
- Pushes quick payments
- Doesn’t allow you to inspect the product
9. Fake Payment Screenshots
Scammers may pretend to be buyers and send edited bank transfer screenshots.
Don’t rely on screenshots.
Always check your bank balance through your official banking app or SMS alerts before handing over the item.
10. Overpayment Scams
You may receive claims like “I transferred extra money, please refund the balance.”
Reality: No money was sent. They rely on you sending “the difference.”
Always confirm the transaction in your bank account before returning money.
If You Spot Something Suspicious
ikman’s support team is ready to help. If you feel something is off, report it immediately:
Hotline: 0112 350 350 (9 AM – 6 PM)
Email: support@ikman.lk
Online marketplaces make life easier, but staying alert makes your experience safer. Stay smart, stay cautious, and enjoy buying and selling with confidence on ikman.lk
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