Is ASOS Marketplace a Scam? Protecting Yourself from Scams in 2026

Navigating ASOS Marketplace Safely in 2026

ASOS Marketplace offers a diverse range of products, but like any online platform, it's essential to be aware of potential scams. This guide focuses on protecting buyers when purchasing high-value electronics like the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro.

Common Scams to Watch Out For

• ✓ Off-Platform Payment Lure: Be extremely cautious if a seller tries to move the transaction off ASOS Marketplace. They might offer a slightly better price if you pay them directly via bank transfer, PayPal (as friends/family), or other non-traceable methods. This is a common tactic to avoid platform fees and buyer protection. For an item like the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro, which is a significant investment, always use the platform's secure payment gateway.
• ✓ Shipping Tracking Manipulation: Scammers may provide fake tracking numbers or alter shipping details to make it appear as though the item has been sent and delivered. Always verify tracking information directly with the courier and be suspicious of sellers who are overly insistent on a specific, unverified shipping method.
• ✓ The Return Swap Scam: This scam involves a seller sending a different, often less valuable or non-functional, item than what was advertised. They then rely on the buyer accepting the package and initiating a return, only to receive the original, high-value item back while sending a counterfeit or broken one in its place. For a device like the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro, meticulous inspection upon arrival is crucial.
• ✓ Discount Code Data Harvest: While not directly related to the phone itself, be wary of unsolicited links or messages offering "discount codes" for ASOS Marketplace. These can be phishing attempts to steal your account credentials or personal information.
• ✓ Super-Fake Designer Replica (Applicable to high-end tech): Though the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro isn't a designer item in the traditional sense, this scam principle applies. Scammers may attempt to pass off heavily modified or counterfeit versions of the phone, making it look genuine. Thoroughly inspect the device's physical condition, IMEI, and serial number against official specifications and seller claims.

Verifying the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro

When purchasing a high-value item like the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro, verification is key. Look for sellers with a strong positive rating history on ASOS Marketplace. Requesting clear, unedited photos and videos of the phone in operation, including its about phone screen and IMEI/serial number, can help verify authenticity. Cross-reference these details with official ASUS specifications to ensure they match.

Be cautious of listings with vague descriptions or stock images. The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro is a premium device, and legitimate sellers will provide detailed information and clear photos. If a deal seems too good to be true, it often is.

Secure Your Transaction with Safe Trade Services

For significant purchases like the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro (typically over $500), we highly recommend utilizing Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for identity verification. This adds an extra layer of security by verifying the credentials of both buyer and seller, ensuring a more trustworthy peer-to-peer transaction on ASOS Marketplace. For lower-value items, the Basic Plan is also available to enhance your security.

By staying vigilant and employing these safety measures, you can significantly reduce your risk and enjoy a secure shopping experience on ASOS Marketplace.