Marketplace, jobs, rentals and romance · stamped SCAM

The Marketplace buyer who pays firstSCAM

A real scam people fell for this year, next to the real thing. The numbers mark the three things to check: hover or tap one to see what it tells you.

Safe

fMarketplace | Facebook×

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/inbox

Dining table · $150Dave Pelletier · Marketplace

Hi, is the bike still available?9:41

Yes it is9:42

Great. Could I come see it Saturday morning around 10? I'll bring cash.9:42

Scam

fMarketplace | Facebook×

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/inbox

Dining table · $150Mary Johnson · Marketplace

Hi is this still available? I'll pay $150 by Zelle9:41

Yes it is9:42

I sent it. Zelle says your account needs to be upgraded to a business account to receive it. Please send $300 to upgrade and it will be refunded with the payment.9:42

Always check the request.

The buyer wants you to send $300 so you can receive $150. Real payment apps never make you pay to get paid.

Always checkThe real oneThe scam

1Where it livesIs it the real company's or person's own address or number?

A buyer writing to you on Marketplace.

Also a buyer on Marketplace. The chat itself looks the same.

2What it asks you to doCheck firstDoes it want a password, a payment, a call, or a tap?

Come see it Saturday and pay cash.

Send $300 to “upgrade” your Zelle so the payment goes through.

3How hard it pushesIs there a deadline, a threat, or a surprise charge?

No rush: a day that suits you.

The money is “already sent”, you just have to unlock it.

RememberIf a buyer needs you to send money first, it's a scam. Every time.

Would you have spotted it?

10 pairs like this one, three minutes, a score to share. Then find out who in the family is the easy mark.

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