How To Spot Scammers On Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is one of the best tools available today; you can easily sell anything you no longer need or find great deals on items. It’s undoubtedly the top platform that connects sellers and buyers. Some individuals even run successful businesses through Facebook Marketplace. However, like any tool designed for good, it can also be misused and cause harm to others. When Facebook introduced this feature back in 2016, it was a significant step forward from the then-leading platforms like Gumtree and OLX. Initially, it was considered the safest option, but things have changed over time. As someone who frequently buys and sells on Marketplace, here are some ways to spot scammers on Facebook Marketplace.

1. No Profile Photo

Nothing raises suspicion more than an account with no profile photo on Facebook. While this isn’t always the case, it definitely serves as a red flag, prompting you to investigate their profile for any legitimate activity. Speaking of profile photos, take note of how long the account has been active. In the example above, I would definitely approach the seller with caution.

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2. Pricing – If It’s Too Good To Be True, It’s Because It Is

Scammers are always on the lookout for easy money, and many of us turn to Facebook in search of great deals. They are aware of this and cleverly create enticing offers that trigger a sense of urgency. I’ve known several people who have fallen victim to these schemes. Some scammers even pose as representatives of legitimate companies, only to deceive unsuspecting buyers. If you come across what seems like an amazing deal, take a moment to check the market value of that item. If the price is within a reasonable range, it’s likely genuine; however, if it’s significantly lower than expected, it’s best to steer clear. A Rolls Royce will never be sold for R10,000.

3. I Can Shiiiip It To You.

This is a classic scam. The conversation often goes like, “Don’t worry, I can ship it to you; just send me a deposit of X amount.” If someone says this to you, run! Get away fast. I once took a chance and decided to buy a classic watch. I told the seller I would only send the cash if he could prove he was by Paxi, and he did. However, when I received the watch, it wasn’t as he described, and then he started blocking my calls. I learned my lesson the hard way. Always buy in person on Facebook Marketplace, especially for electronics. You want to test as much as you can before making any purchase.

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4. Send Me Your Bank Details.

This is a common scam going on Facebook Marketplace, often aimed at unsuspecting sellers. If you’re feeling pressured to sell something, you might encounter someone who claims they will transfer money to your account. Be cautious of these individuals. They often provide fake identification and documents, like a counterfeit proof of payment or a misleading SMS that can easily deceive you. Always be wary of such people. Unless the money appears in your bank account and you’ve verified it through your banking app, do not release your item.

Conclusion

Scammers on marketplaces aren’t just sellers; they can also pose as buyers. While there are many honest and good people using these platform, a few bad actors have tarnished the reputation of the entire system. Because it’s a digital environment, law enforcement often finds it challenging to track down criminals. Always arrange to meet in public places, and if possible, avoid cash payments, as some individuals may attempt to use counterfeit money.