How to Stay Safe

Here’s some advice to help you stay safe online and avoid scams.

Deal only with people who live in your locality.
Dealing locally with people you can meet is the best way to avoid scammers. Scammers often ask you to send the item they’re trying to sell from another country.

Don’t wire funds (Western Union, Money Gram, etc. ).
You’re dealing with a scammer if you are asked to send money.

Beware of fake money orders and cashier’s checks.
Scammers often send you fake cashier’s checks that are worth more than your price. Scammers will ask you to return the excess payment to them. The bank may cash the check, but if it turns out to be fraudulent, your bank will hold you responsible.

Gift cards such as i-Store, Visa, etc. should not be used to pay for purchases. ).
If you are asked to pay with gift cards, it could be a scammer.

Beware of Identity Theft Do not share your personal information.
Identity theft is a growing crime in the United States. Do not give out any personal information, including passwords, bank account numbers or numbers, your mother’s maiden, birth date, birthplace, social security number, credit card numbers, or numbers.

Be cautious when accepting relay calls made by the hearing or speech impaired.
Relay calls can be a useful service for those with speech and hearing disabilities. Scammers will often contact you using this service, pretending that they are deaf. Deal locally with people that you can meet.

Avoid shipping and escrow.
Scammers often use fake online escrow services.

Avoid buying deals that seem too good to be true.
Scammers often post fake ads that sell items at a significantly lower price. Please report any fake ads you come across by clicking on “Report This Ad” within the ad.