Facebook Marketplace Rated Lowest for Online Scam Protections

SINGAPORE – In a startling revelation, Facebook Marketplace has been ranked the lowest among six major e-commerce platforms for its anti-scam measures, according to the Inter-Ministry Committee on Scams (IMCS) report revealed on August 30.

The 2025 E-commerce Marketplace Transaction Safety Ratings (TSR) evaluated platforms based on their latest security features aimed at combating online fraud. Among the staggering 11,627 reported e-commerce scam incidents in 2024, a shocking 37.6%—4,368 cases—originated from Facebook Marketplace, the highest of any platform.

The Shockingly Low Rating

Facebook Marketplace received just one tick in the TSR, the lowest rating possible, continuing its streak as the least secure option since the beginning of the ratings in 2022. In stark contrast, competitors like Carousell earned two ticks, while industry leaders Amazon, Lazada, Shopee, and newcomer TikTok Shop all secured four ticks for their robust anti-scam protocols.

E-Commerce Scams on the Rise

E-commerce scams have emerged as a pervasive issue in Singapore, with a 19.2% increase in reported cases from the previous year. Statistics reveal that most of these scams involved consumers falling victim to transactions where the goods were paid for but never delivered.

Comparative Analysis of Scam Cases

The TSR report highlighted that Carousell accounted for 17.1% of scam cases in 2024, while TikTok and Shopee reported only 3.4% and 1.5%, respectively. In comparison, Lazada and Amazon had significantly lower counts with only 12 and 3 cases reported.

Government Actions and Platform Responses

Amidst rising concerns, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) indicated it would mandate seller identity verification on both Facebook Marketplace and Carousell if reported scam instances did not drastically decrease over six months. Carousell experienced a modest 11% reduction in scams, prompting further scrutiny, while Facebook saw a remarkable 55% decrease, alleviating immediate verification requirements.

What Are Platforms Doing About It?

In response to the alarming scam statistics, both Facebook Marketplace and Carousell have initiated measures to enhance user security. Facebook has implemented enhanced verification for selected sellers, incorporated warning alerts in listings, and raised consumer awareness about potential fraud. Meanwhile, Carousell adopted Singpass verification for users evidencing suspicious behavior and is now issuing verified badges to trustworthy sellers.

Looking Forward: What's Next for E-Commerce Safety?

As the IMCS continues to collaborate with e-commerce platforms to improve transaction safety, consumers are urged to remain vigilant and educated about the risks associated with online transactions. With Facebook Marketplace trailing behind, the pressure is on for platforms to bolster their security features and restore consumer confidence in the ever-evolving landscape of online shopping.