GASTONIA, N.C. (WBTV) – The next time you consider using a money transfer app to pay someone you’ve never met, you may want to think twice.
Transferring money to someone quickly with just the touch of a button is efficient. But, experts say that when you’re using it as a method to pay a stranger, it can — in some cases — open you up to fraud.
In two cases reported to the Gastonia Police Department in August 2025, people reported losing money to a transaction on the Chime app.
Using an app like Chime for peer-to-peer transfers is similar to using other apps like Venmo or Cash App, although Chime allows you to pay anyone, whether they have a Chime account or not.
According to the police reports, one woman says she was defrauded out of $35 after sending money via Chime for a dog she was supposed to buy, but never received.
In another case, a woman reported being swindled out of $2,400 after a “suspect fraudulently obtained payment through Chime.”
WBTV contacted Chime about these cases. A spokesperson responded with a statement saying Chime takes matters like this “very seriously,” and that their team has “thoroughly reviewed these cases.”
“While privacy obligations prevent us from disclosing individual member data, we stand by our decision based on our investigation,” the statement read.
When using these apps, it’s up to the consumer to be cautious and verify the account receiving payment. That’s why Juliana O’Rork with the Better Business Bureau suggests using a credit card, or instead meeting someone in person and paying with cash.
“We would never recommend anybody do any type of peer-to-peer payment, just because there’s really no recourse,” O’Rork said. “Any financial institution will kind of say, ‘Well, you’ve sent that money and that’s on you.‘”
When it comes to buying something from another person, Gastonia police suggest meeting the seller in a safe, public space.
The Gastonia Police Department has several designated areas for those transactions at their police station station.
Protecting yourself against fraud, scams
The Gastonia Police Department shares the following advice to protect yourself against fraud and scams.
Avoid “friends & family” payments
Scammers often ask you to send money using friends and family payment options on apps, because those transfers are instant, irreversible, and offer no buyer protection. Always use a method that provides purchase protection when available.
Don’t pay before you verify
Never send money for an apartment, home rental, or product you haven’t personally inspected. If someone refuses to let you see the property or item in person, it’s likely a scam. Be cautious of paying with wire transfers.
Beware of high-pressure tactics
Scammers may claim there are “multiple buyers” or that you’ll lose the deal unless you send money immediately. Take your time. If it feels rushed, it’s probably a scam.
Know that transfers are final
Unlike a credit card, money transfer apps don’t allow chargebacks or disputes. Once the money is sent, it’s nearly impossible to recover if the deal is fraudulent.
Watch for red flags in rental scams
Be cautious if the “landlord” or “seller” claims to be out of town, asks you to wire or app money before handing over keys or items, or offers a price that seems too good to be true.
Meet safely, pay safely
When possible, meet the seller in a safe, public place. Many police departments offer safe transaction zones. There are several spots here at the Gastonia Police Department for such transactions. Pay with secure methods, like a credit card, only after confirming you’re receiving the item. Never use your debit card and never share bank account information.
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