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How to avoid Facebook Marketplace scams
The most common buyer scams and simple rules that protect you.
Red flags
- The price is far below market and the seller is “out of town”.
- They ask for a deposit to “hold” the item.
- They want a code sent to your phone. That’s an account takeover attempt.
- They push you to pay by wire, gift card or crypto.
- A new profile with no history, or one that won’t video call.
Simple rules
- See it before you pay.
- Pay at pickup, ideally in person.
- Keep the conversation in Messenger.
- Use safe exchange zones (many police stations offer them).
- For vehicles, check the VIN and the title.
More help
- Why does Marketplace only show local results?
- How to change your location on Facebook Marketplace
- How to change the Marketplace search radius
- How to allow pop-ups so all the tabs open
- Buying on Marketplace from another city
- Marketplace search tips: keywords that find more
- Saved searches and “new since last time”