Facebook marketplace is a great way to snag a bargain. Facebook marketplace is the classified ad section of the social network where users can buy and sell goods online. This sustainable initiative by Facebook helps users to save money and give life to unwanted goods.
Digital safety is something we are becoming more conscious of as technology continues to evolve; scammers are becoming more advanced in their tactics. This means we must become more aware of not giving away personal information or data online.Here are some ways strategies I use to protect myself from being scammed on Facebook marketplace.
Never give your address
This tip is just common sense. It’s never a good i666dea to give your address to a stranger. Instead, meet in a public place where there are people around. An even better idea is to bring a friend or family member for safety.
Pay in cash
Scammers exist on every social media platform, including Facebook marketplace. I recommend only accepting cash payments if you sell something on the marketplace. My partner got scammed recently when he tried buying a pair of shoes on Facebook marketplace. He paid for a pair of boots, which have yet to arrive from the seller. Be sceptical about someone who says they will only mail you the goods if you are a buyer. If you need the goods shipped, ask the seller to send you a picture of the item being posted and ask for the tracking number.
Do not buy expensive or designer items!
Never buy designer items on marketplace. Scammers are becoming more advanced in sourcing dupes with fake authentication cards and serial numbers. Use the old adage, If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is, that $299 Louis Vuitton bag will never be authentic; let’s be real. If you cannot afford to lose, do not buy expensive items on marketplace.
Do not give sensitive information
Never give out passwords, credit card numbers or your email address to strangers. What I have noticed lately is a trend of scammers using the excuse that their pay ID doesn’t work. They will then ask for your mobile number or email. They usually say they will pay in advance and get their partner to pick it up. These are the type of things scammers will say to gain access to sensitive data.
Just use common sense
Check out the profile of the buyer or seller. Does the person have the following: a profile picture, friends on Facebook and prior Facebook activity? If the profile looks fresh, you may be dealing with a scammer. Another tip is to look for previous seller/buyer reviews from anyone else.
Happy sustainable shopping, I hope these tips have helped keep you safe on Facebook marketplace.
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