Safety Tips for Buying or Selling Online

• 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.