Why a live video of the item beats photos
When you buy a phone, a laptop, furniture or a vehicle online, you see photos. Photos are easy to copy. A scammer can take pictures from another listing and use them to take your advance. A short live video of the item costs the seller a minute and gives you real confidence.
Why it matters
Many online fraud cases start with a listing for an item the seller does not own. Once the advance is paid, the seller disappears. A live video makes it much harder for a fake seller to continue.
Why photos fall short
- They can be taken from another listing or website
- They can be edited
- They do not show the item's actual condition
- They do not prove the seller is present with it
What a good video shows
- The item from several angles including damage or wear.
- The serial or IMEI number, chassis number or other identifier.
- Switching it on or using it, where relevant.
- A live proof, for example a note with today's date and your name.
- The seller on camera, holding or standing next to the item.
- The surroundings, so you know where it is.
How to ask politely
- Say you want to be careful with the payment
- Offer a time that suits the seller
- Keep it short, a couple of minutes
- Thank them, since many genuine sellers will agree readily
Combine with other checks
- Match the name of the payee with the seller
- Meet in a public place for local deals
- Pay only through safe methods and after verifying
- Keep chats and receipts
If the seller says no
Do not pay. Genuine sellers understand. Excuses about being busy, being away or having someone else hold the item are common signs of a scam.
How Praman helps
Praman by SatyaSakshi makes the live check formal. The seller joins a WhatsApp video call, shows ID, completes a face match and liveness check and shows the item, with time and location recorded. A bank or UPI name check can be added where enabled, and the record helps if there is a dispute.
Frequently asked questions
Why are photos not enough?
Photos can be copied from other listings or edited, so they do not prove the seller has the item.
What should the video show?
The item from several angles, its serial number or identifying marks, and something that shows the live moment, such as today's date written on paper.
What if the seller refuses?
Treat it as a warning. Genuine sellers can usually do a short video on request.
Related: how Praman handles this for businesses · all instant checks
Check before you trust, with SatyaSakshi Praman
A WhatsApp link, a short video call with consent, and a report reviewed by SatyaSakshi investigators.
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