How to Avoid Scams When Buying or Selling on Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is a popular place to buy and sell used items locally, but the Better Business Bureau and FTC both report that scams on Marketplace have increased significantly. Whether you are selling a piece of furniture or trying to find a deal on a phone, knowing the warning signs can save you from losing money or having your personal information stolen.

If you are selling something, watch out for these red flags: A buyer offers to pay more than your asking price (this is a setup for a fake check or overpayment scam). A buyer says they cannot meet in person and asks you to ship the item. A buyer sends a payment through Zelle, Cash App, or Venmo before you ship — and then tries to "reverse" the payment and get the item for free. The safest way to sell on Marketplace is to meet the buyer in person, in a public place (many police stations offer a "Safe Exchange Zone" in their parking lot), and accept cash or payment through Facebook's own checkout system only.

If you are buying something, watch out for: Prices that seem far too low compared to similar items (if a new-looking iPhone is listed for $100, something is wrong). Sellers who want you to pay through wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency — this is always a scam, no matter the reason they give. Sellers who ask for your home address to "send you a receipt." Always inspect the item in person before handing over money, and trust your instincts — if something feels off, walk away.