How to Use Facebook Marketplace Safely

Facebook Marketplace is a free way to buy and sell items locally — furniture, electronics, cars, clothing, and more. It is built into the Facebook app and shows listings from people in your area. You message sellers directly and arrange to meet in person.

To browse: open the Facebook app and tap the Marketplace icon (storefront icon) at the bottom or top of the screen. Browse categories or search for specific items. Filter by location, price range, and condition.

To sell: tap "Create new listing" → choose a category → add photos, a title, price, description, and your location. Your listing appears to people in your area. Respond promptly to messages from potential buyers.

Safety rules for buying: always meet in a public place (police station parking lots are ideal — many have designated "Safe Exchange Zones"). Bring a friend. Never send payment before seeing the item in person. If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Never share personal financial information.

Safety rules for selling: do not invite strangers to your home. Meet in public. Accept cash or use Facebook's built-in checkout for shipped items. Be wary of anyone who offers more than your asking price or wants to pay with a cashier's check.

Check the buyer or seller's Facebook profile. Established profiles with friends, photos, and posting history are more trustworthy than brand-new profiles with no activity.