Buying or Selling Online? Avoid Digital Marketplace Scams

Online marketplaces like Facebook, Craigslist, OfferUp, and others make it easy to buy and sell everything from furniture to electronics. But they also attract scammers looking to take advantage of people who let their guard down. Whether you’re listing an item or responding to one, here’s how to keep your transactions safe.

Common Scams to Watch For If You’re Selling¹:

• Fake payment confirmations: Scammers send fake screenshots claiming they paid via Zelle, Venmo, or PayPal, but no money ever shows up.
• Overpayment scams: The buyer “accidentally” overpays with a fake check and asks you to refund the difference before the check bounces.
• Payment Requests asking you to pay with a gift card.

If You’re Buying²:

• Too-good-to-be-true prices: A brand-new iPhone for $100? It’s probably a scam.
• Phishing links: Scammers may ask you to “verify” your identity through a fake website.
• Fake listings: Some listings are completely fabricated, and no product exists at all.

Tips to Stay Safe When Selling

Never ship items to someone you don’t know. Insist on local pickup only. Don’t rely on payment screenshots. Log in to your app or bank to confirm funds have been received. Avoid sharing personal info, no one needs your phone number or address until you meet. Meet in public. Use a police station parking lot or a busy location to help deter any type of theft.

Tips to Stay Safe When Buying

Be cautious of sellers asking for deposits, don’t pay until you’ve seen the item in person. Avoid clicking links sent in messages, as they may lead to phishing sites. And if you are meeting someone in person, bring a friend. It’s safer, especially when meeting at someone’s home or in a place that’s not very public.

If You Think You’ve Been Scammed

• Report the buyer or seller to the marketplace platform and file a complaint with the FTC or your local law enforcement.
• If you sent money, contact your bank or payment app right away to put a hold on the funds.

Online marketplaces can be convenient and even fun, but only if you stay alert. With a few simple precautions, you can buy and sell with confidence and keep scammers out of the deal.

¹ https://www.keepersecurity.com/blog/2024/09/30/facebook-marketplace-scams-to-avoid-in-2024/

²https://www.facebook.com/help/2374002556073992/