Common local marketplace scams and how to spot them
Scams on local sale sites tend to follow the same few scripts. Once you know them, they're easy to spot.
The verification code
Someone says they need to "verify you're real" and asks you to read back a code you just got by text. That code is usually for your own account. Never share one, with anyone, for any reason.
The overpayment
A buyer sends more than the price and asks you to send back the difference. The first payment later fails, and your money is gone. Never send money back to a buyer.
The fake payment screenshot
They show you a picture of a payment, or an email saying it's on hold until you do something. Believe only your own bank or app, opened by you.
The deposit to hold it
A seller with a great price and a long story wants a deposit before you see the item. Usually there's no item. See it first, pay in person.
The courier who'll pick it up
A far-away buyer sends a "shipping agent" and a link to collect a fee or your card number. Keep it local and keep it in person, and don't tap links from strangers.
Too good to be true
A nearly new item at a fraction of its price, and a seller in a hurry, is the classic bait. Ask a question only the real owner could answer, or ask for a new photo of it.
If it happens
Stop answering, keep the messages, report the person on the site where you met them, and call your bank right away if money moved.
On UseMart
On UseMart, you can report an item right from its page, and a person looks at it. Buying on UseMart is free, and selling your own stuff is free too - up to 25 items for sale, no card needed.
Go to UseMart