How do I avoid scams from off-site communication in P2P transactions?

Published on 11 Sept 2025Updated on 11 Sept 20253 min read

Scammers are taking advantage of newly created OKX accounts to post fake USDT sell ads. Once a buyer places an order, they push for off-platform communication—commonly through WhatsApp, Telegram or Zalo. They then demand extra payments outside our platform, cancel the trade after receiving the cash, and move the USDT elsewhere—leaving the buyer with neither their crypto nor a refund.

What are some of the warning signs to look for?

  • Requests to move conversation to WhatsApp, Telegram, or other platforms.

  • Fake “OKX Support” emails or messages.

  • Requests for extra payments outside the platform.

  • Suspicious claims such as “account restricted, help me unlock it.”

  • The seller insists that buyers make payment despite the order being automatically canceled due to timeout.

Don’t rush to make the payment if the remaining time in the payment window is insufficient, as the order may be canceled if you transfer funds after the timeout.

What safety practices should I follow during P2P trades?

  • Never engage in any form of communications off-site — always stay on our in-app chat.

  • Don't share personal information like CNIC, bank credentials, or selfies.

  • Don't pay after the order timeout period, as you lose escrow protection.

  • After completing the cash transfer process, then only click "I have paid" inside our platform.

  • Use and verify your Anti-Phishing Code for email authenticity.

  • Click Appeal immediately if anything seems suspicious.

What do I need to do If I’ve been scammed?

  • Always use the Appeal button directly on your P2P order before canceling.

  • Keep all evidence safe—this includes chats, payment receipts, fake emails, and the order ID.

  • Reach out to us only through in-app support or p2p@okx.com (never trust other email addresses).

  • Don't delete any chat messages—they're essential for us to review and investigate your case.

What's the anti-phishing code and why it's important?

The anti-phishing code is a unique identifier included in all official OKX emails. If it’s missing or doesn’t match your code, the email is likely a scam.Learn more on how you can set it up here.

What trading rules should I follow to stay safe in P2P?

Do This

Never Do This

Trade only inside OKX chat

Move chats to WhatsApp/Telegram

Set and verify your Anti-Phishing Code

Trust emails without your code

Place the payment within the given time window

Make the payment after order is canceled due to time out

Appeal right away if you spot a scam

Wait or cancel without appealing

Only trust emails that include your verified OKX Anti-Phishing Code.

Share info with random emails

Disclaimer
This content is provided for informational purposes only and may cover products that are not available in your region. It is not intended to provide (i) investment advice or an investment recommendation; (ii) an offer or solicitation to buy, sell, or hold crypto/digital assets, or (iii) financial, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Crypto/digital asset holdings, including stablecoins and NFTs, involve a high degree of risk and can fluctuate greatly. You should carefully consider whether trading or holding crypto/digital assets is suitable for you in light of your financial condition. Please consult your legal/tax/investment professional for questions about your specific circumstances. Information (including market data and statistical information, if any) appearing in this post is for general information purposes only. While all reasonable care has been taken in preparing this data and graphs, no responsibility or liability is accepted for any errors of fact or omission expressed herein. Both OKX Web3 Wallet and OKX NFT Marketplace are subject to separate terms of service at www.okx.com.

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