Craigslist is a popular platform for buying and selling items locally. Although it might be an easy way to get in touch with potential customers, it's imperative to be on the lookout for scams, especially when sending goods. In this blog post, we'll discuss the top 15 scams to watch out for when selling items through shipping on Craigslist and provide tips on how to stay safe. Keep in mind Craigslist recommends to keep it local and does not recommend shipping.
Overpayment Scams: Scammers send a check or money order for more than the agreed-upon price and ask you to refund the excess amount. The check or money order is usually counterfeit.
Phishing Scams: Fraudsters send emails or messages that appear to be from legitimate companies, like PayPal or FedEx, containing links to fake websites designed to steal your login credentials or personal information.
Fake Shipping Companies: Scammers pose as representatives of shipping companies or create fake shipping company websites to trick you into paying for nonexistent shipping services.
Escrow Scams: The buyer suggests using a fake escrow service to hold the funds until the item is received. Once you ship the item, the scammer disappears with your item and the money.
Non-Payment Scams: A buyer agrees to purchase your item and requests that you ship it before they make a payment. Once you ship the item, the buyer never sends the payment.
Fake Payment Confirmation Emails: Scammers send fake payment confirmation emails that appear to be from a legitimate payment platform, claiming that the payment has been made and you can now ship the item.
Bounced Check Scams: The buyer sends a check that bounces after you've already shipped the item, leaving you without payment.
Counterfeit Cashier's Checks or Money Orders: The buyer sends a fake cashier's check or money order as payment, which may not be detected until after you've shipped the item.
Fraudulent Shipping Labels: Scammers provide you with a fake shipping label that results in the package being sent to an incorrect address or not being delivered at all.
Identity Theft: Scammers use your personal information, obtained through phishing or other deceptive means, to make unauthorized purchases or open new accounts in your name.
Stolen Card Scams: The buyer pays with a stolen credit card. Then after you ship the item, you get charged back by the card owners bank.
Inflated Shipping Costs: Scammers charge excessive shipping fees to unsuspecting buyers, pocketing the difference between the actual shipping cost and the inflated amount.
Partial Payment Scams: The buyer sends a partial payment and promises to pay the rest upon receipt of the item. After you ship the item, the buyer never sends the remaining payment.
Item Switching Scams: The buyer claims to have received a damaged or different item than what was advertised and demands a refund, while actually keeping the original item.
Third-Party Pickup Scams: The buyer arranges for a third party to pick up the item, claiming they'll send payment afterward. Once the item is picked up, the buyer never sends the payment.
Bonus Tip:
Fake Verification or Certification Services: Scammers pose as third-party verification or certification services, claiming they can authenticate the buyer's payment or confirm the legitimacy of a transaction. They request payment for their "services," but once you've paid, they disappear without providing any actual service.
To avoid falling victim to these scams, always use secure payment methods, verify the legitimacy of emails and websites, and trust your instincts. Maintain clear communication with buyers and document all transaction details. By staying vigilant and informed, you can ensure a safer online buying and selling experience on Craigslist.
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