How to know if a vendor is a scammer in Nigeria
Simple checks to know if an online vendor is legit or a scammer before you pay, plus a free number checker.
Updated October 2026
Quick answerCheck their number on Plugg, ask for a live video of the item, look at the name on the account they want you to pay into, and prefer pay on delivery. If two or more of the warning signs below show up, do not pay.
Step by step
- Paste their WhatsApp number in Plugg Check number.
- Add the account number they gave you and check that too.
- Ask for a short live video holding the item with today's date.
- Compare the account name with the business name.
- Ask for pay on delivery or a trusted escrow.
Warning signs
- They want full payment upfront and refuse pay on delivery.
- They rush you with "last one today" or "pay now or you lose it".
- The price is too good to be true.
- The account name does not match the business name.
- New account, no history, few real customers.
- They avoid a video call or refuse to show the item live.
Check a number for free
Paste any WhatsApp number or account number and see if Nigerians reported it.
Check a numberQuestions people ask
Can a scammer have good reviews?
Yes. Reviews and screenshots can be faked. Check the number and account on Plugg and ask for a live video.
Is checking on Plugg free?
Yes, checking numbers is free.
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