Felix, 34: He desperately wants to order a new games console, but it is sold out almost everywhere. On a large Internet sales platform, he finds what he is looking for and discovers a supplier who still has a few units in stock.*

Released at last! The latest gaming machine is out! I have to have it, but I can't find a shop that still has one in stock. After a long search, I discover a seller on a classifieds portal who still has a few consoles - what luck, I think.

I write to the dealer and say that I want to buy it right away. I want to get started right away. Why wait until Christmas? Within a few hours he replies and asks me to communicate with him by e-mail from now on. He says it's easier for him. The dealer is happy to do business with me and offers to ship the console whenever I pay. The device could be in the post this evening and with me by the end of the week! I confirm that everything is fine from my side. He suggests that I pay in vouchers because he has contractual problems with his payment service provider. That way, the purchase would be safe for both sides. Sounds plausible, I think to myself; I quickly buy vouchers worth 500 euros from a large online retailer and send them to him.

It's the end of the week and my console hasn't arrived yet. I write to the dealer. Maybe there are logistical problems. I am still waiting for an answer. My other e-mails are also ignored. I don't have a telephone number. When I check the voucher codes, the credit has already been redeemed and a refund is impossible...

How can I protect myself from online fraud?

This example shows just one of countless methods that fraudsters use again and again. It is very easy to disguise your identity on the Internet, which plays into their hands. However, you can arm yourself with a few tips that help you to counter criminal behaviour:

1. Check the seller/buyer: Are there any reviews on the trader? Do they offer secure payments methods like purchase on account?

2. Do not pay in advance for classified ad portals: platforms will not usually assume liability for payments. Never choose unusual payment methods, such as buying credit.

3. Be sceptical if the seller/buyer claims time pressure: this may be a scam designed to pressure you into acting rashly. Scammers want to reduce your time to think.

4. Carry out all negotiations within the trading platform:by communicating with you via e-mail or text message, fraudsters bypass the security mechanisms of the sales portals.

5. Do not respond to telephone requests for payment from alleged relatives, friends or traders: This is usually a ploy to hide a fraud attempt, such as the well-known grandparent scam.

*Fictitious use case