By definition, in-game scams are any inappropriate actions meant to defraud a fellow player with the intent to take in-game items or other possessions from them. Such actions can be defined as, but are not limited to, giving misinformation, switching items out for others during a trade, or not abiding by a trade agreement.

Scams will be investigated by the GM staff and account action may be taken on all individuals that are found to be involved in a trade scam. Any items or gil gained through such means will also be confiscated and returned to the rightful player. All accounts found involved in a trade scam will be immediately suspended and reviewed by the Account Admin for permanent account termination. Please note, although the GM team will attempt to confiscate and return items or gil back to the victim, there is no guarantee that the item(s) will be returned. 

As a rule, GMs do not get involved in player disputes. However, if an item was lent to another player and the borrower refuses to return the item, this can be treated as a scam and dealt with accordingly. If you find yourself a victim of a scam, please report to the GM staff via the following options within a week of the trade with as much detailed information as possible:

-"Support Desk"

-"I want to report a violation of the PlayOnline Member Agreement" 

To protect yourself from scams, always double-check items in the trade window before hitting the "accept" button. If loaning items to others, be sure to set clear terms for the date and time of return.

* Please understand that if the GM staff is unable to find evidence of trade or delivery during the course of the investigation, the items cannot be returned.

* Please also understand that due to technical constraints, the GM staff is only able to assist with investigations that are reported within one week of their occurrence. GMs cannot pursue reports received later than that.

Trade scams affect not only the perpetrator and the victim, but also SQUARE ENIX and the community as a whole. To promote the stability of FINAL FANTASY XI's community, we do our best to prevent scams and abuse to our players.