• Communicate using the application or website’s messaging system, and do not share personal information with other users.
• Look for verified users who already have a strong rating.
• Meet at a well-lit and public place, like a grocery store, shopping mall, or police station. The people you want to do business with will meet you at safe locations, without demanding additional information.
• Try to bring a friend or family member with you when selling or purchasing an item.
• Report users who have exhibited suspicious, illegal, offensive or harassing behavior.
• When purchasing a used cell phone, ask the seller if they are willing to allow you to check the Electric Serial Number/IMEI numbers prior to meeting and purchasing the phone. You can check these numbers online to ensure the phone is not blacklisted (unable to connect with a carrier) or reported lost/stolen. Meet at the carrier’s store with the seller and activate the phone on the spot.
• Be especially careful buying/selling high value items.
• If something does not feel right, move on to another buyer/seller.
Avoid Scams
• Do not mail or wire funds without having the item in your possession.
• Don't accept cashier/certified checks or money orders - banks will cash the fraudulent checks or money order and then hold you responsible.
• Never give out financial information (bank account, social security, PayPal account, etc.).
• Do not rent or purchase sight-unseen. That amazing "deal" may not exist.
