Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace: A Scammer’s Playground – How to Stay Safe While Selling or Buying a Car On These Marketplaces
The allure of these online marketplaces is undeniable a treasure trove of potential bargains within your community. But amidst the genuine deals lurks a darker side: scammers eager to exploit those seeking a good price or a unique find or looking to buy your car right away. Let’s dig deeper into their tactics and arm you with the knowledge to outsmart them.
Advanced Scam Techniques to Watch Out For
- The Car Shipping Scam: This scam targets people selling a car. The scammer contacts you about your vehicle (often after you’ve posted it online) and expresses strong interest. They agree to your asking price quickly, but with one condition โ they’ll pay for shipping through their “trusted” transport company.
- The Scam: The “transport company” then contacts you and instructs you to wire them money for supposed upfront costs (insurance, processing fees, etc.) Once you send the money, both the potential buyer and the fake shipping company vanish.
- Fake Car Escrow Services: To create an illusion of security, especially for big purchases, scammers suggest using a fake escrow site like Ebay Motors. This site is controlled by them or the email they send is not from the original site, and once you send the money, it vanishes. Always use well-established escrow companies with verifiable credentials.
- Gift Card Trap: Scammers, pretending to be buyers, request payment in gift cards. It’s untraceable, and they disappear once they have the codes. Gift cards should never be considered a legitimate form of payment for online transactions.
- Emotional Manipulation: Scammers prey on empathy. They may invent a sob story (urgent medical bills, a stranded family, etc.) to pressure you into sending money quickly. Don’t fall for emotional pleas โ focus on verifying the transaction.
Beyond the Basics: Protecting Yourself
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Do Your Homework:
- Research average prices for the item you’re buying or selling. Outrageously low prices are traps.
- Look up phone numbers associated with an offer. Online scam reporting sites might have records of fraudulent numbers.
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Communication is Key:
- Stay within the platform’s messaging system. Scammers want to lure you into email or text where it’s easier for them to manipulate you.
- Ask specific questions about the item or service. Scammers often give vague answers.
- Meet in Safe Zones: Many police stations offer designated “safe exchange zones” for online transactions.
- Take a Friend: Having a second person with you when meeting a seller or buyer offers an extra layer of safety.
Red Flags to Spot on Seller Profiles
- Brand New Accounts: Be cautious of profiles created very recently.
- Generic Profile Photos: Stock images or no profile picture at all are common with scammers.
- Poor Spelling and Grammar: Many fraudulent listings are filled with typos or poorly constructed sentences.
- Limited Activity: Check if the seller has a history on the platform or only has a few listings.
What if I Suspect a Scam?
- Cut Contact: Don’t engage further, even to call them out. They could become aggressive.
- Report and Block: Utilize the platforms’ reporting features and block their account.
- Spread the Word: Warn others by leaving a review if the platform allows it, or consider posting on local community social media groups to alert others to the scam.
The Bottom Line
Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace can be fantastic resources, but success relies on vigilance. By educating yourself on the evolving tactics of scammers, focusing on local transactions, and never hesitating to walk away from a suspicious deal, you can navigate these platforms with greater confidence and minimize your risk of getting scammed.
Please conduct business locally and never never ever send money upfront. When you go see the vehicle and are ready to buy, make sure the VIN (vehicle ID number) matches what’s on the title.
