Scammed Over a Camera? You're Not Alone.
Share
A Public Service Reminder for Photographers in the Philippines
Every week, it happens.
Someone in a local photography group posts a warning: “I just got scammed.” Sometimes it’s a fake listing. Sometimes it’s a seller who vanishes after getting paid. Other times it’s gear that arrives broken, tampered with, or nothing like what was promised.
Photography scams are becoming more common in the Philippines, especially on Facebook Marketplace and in buy-and-sell groups. The targets? Beginners trying to save money. Casual shooters looking for a good deal. Even pros hunting for backups or rare lenses.
Let this be a reminder, not just a warning. Here's what’s happening, how these scams work, and how you can protect yourself.
How the scams usually work
1. The too-good-to-be-true listing
A full-frame camera for half the usual price. A GFX body “rush sale” for ₱30,000. Sellers will often say they’re migrating, need quick cash, or "don’t know the value" of the item. They’ll pressure you to pay immediately or offer a small discount if you "lock it in" now.
Red flag: No legit seller rushes a deal like that without any meeting or testing.
2. Fake waybills and dummy tracking
Some scammers pretend to ship the item. They’ll send you a photo of a waybill from LBC or J&T. But if you check the tracking number, it’s either invalid, already delivered to someone else, or completely fake.
Red flag: The waybill exists, but there’s no confirmation the package actually contains your gear, or was even addressed to you.
3. Bait and switch
You see photos of mint gear. You pay. What arrives is broken, a different model, or worse, just rocks in a box. In some cases, there’s no package at all.
Red flag: Seller refuses to do video calls, show serial numbers, or let you inspect the item in person.
4. Stolen accounts and borrowed identities
Some scammers hijack old Facebook accounts to look legit. They’ll use a profile that’s been active for years, complete with family photos and comments from friends.
Red flag: Inconsistent replies. Odd behavior. Sudden activity in selling groups despite years of no previous involvement in photography.
How to protect yourself
1. Avoid full payment for unseen gear
If you can’t inspect the item, don’t pay in full. Use trusted third-party marketplaces or buy in person.
2. Check the seller’s identity
Ask for video proof: gear + serial number + their face. If they refuse, that’s a big warning sign. Look through their social media, do they seem like a real person with a history in photography?
3. Join groups that verify sellers
Some Facebook groups require verification. Others keep scammer watchlists. Read the comments. You’re not the only one checking them out.
4. Use meetups with caution
Meet in a public place, ideally a mall or café. Bring someone with you. Test the gear thoroughly before paying.
5. Don’t let the price blind you
If the deal looks too good, it probably is. Scammers bait with emotion—urgency, excitement, pressure. Take a breath. Think twice.
What to do if you’ve been scammed
- Report the incident to the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group: https://acg.pnp.gov.ph
- Gather evidence, screenshots, messages, receipts, tracking numbers.
- Alert the community by posting details (carefully) in trusted photography groups.
- File a report with your local barangay or city hall if the seller is traceable.
Photography is already an expensive passion. Losing hard-earned money to a scam hurts not just your wallet, but your trust in people.
Let’s watch out for each other. If you spot a suspicious listing, say something. Share this article. Educate your friends, especially those just starting out. The more informed we are, the harder it becomes for scammers to keep pulling the same tricks.
And if you've been scammed, don’t be ashamed. It happens. What matters is speaking up, so others don’t fall for the same thing.
Stay sharp. Shoot safe. And always double-check before you click send.