Whether you're browsing listings on Facebook Marketplace, scrolling through Instagram sellers, or checking out a classified app, the used-item market is booming. But so are the scams.

And here's the hard truth: it doesn’t take much to get tricked. A well-written message, a few convincing photos, and a fake sense of urgency are often all it takes. And you can get scammed both as a seller or buyer on social media or marketplaces.

So, if you’re thinking about buying used online, here’s what you need to know to avoid being scammed—and how to protect yourself when things feel just a little “off.”

The growing problem of marketplace scams

Scams targeting second-hand buyers and sellers are becoming more common—and more convincing.

Fake listings. Phony payment links. Pressure to move the conversation off-platform. Malware disguised as delivery tracking apps. The tactics vary, but the goal is always the same: to get your money or personal information to be used for identity theft or targeted phishing.

And the numbers from GASA’s Global State of Scams report 2024 paint a clear picture:

• Nearly $1.026 trillion was lost to scams worldwide in 12 months.
• Only 4% of scam victims recovered their money.

Additionally, F-Secure's Digital Moments 2025 survey found that 83% of people encountered online scams in 2024. Think you're too savvy to fall for one? 43% of people who believed they could spot a scam still fell victim.

So, if you're buying or selling anything second-hand online, it’s time to sharpen your instincts.

Common marketplace scam tactics

Knowing what to look for is your first defense. Here are some of the most frequent scam strategies seen on online marketplaces:

1. The fake buyer or seller

The most basic version: a scammer posts a great deal on an in-demand item—often using stolen images from real listings. Or they pose as a buyer offering to pay immediately if you follow their “preferred” method.

Red flags to watch for:

• A price that’s too good to be true.
• Stock images or overly generic descriptions.
• Urgency: “Need this gone today”.
• Requests to switch to SMS, WhatsApp, or email.

2. Fake payment confirmations

Some scammers will send screenshots of fake payment receipts or “overpay” and ask you to refund the difference. Others claim they’ve paid and ask you to click a link to confirm or release the funds.

Never rely on screenshots. Always verify payment through the platform or your own bank.

3. Malicious delivery apps

A growing scam involves links to fake delivery services. The seller (or buyer) sends a link asking you to install an app to schedule pickup or confirm shipping. In reality, the app installs malware or spyware on your device.

Once installed, it may steal your login credentials, track your messages, or even access banking apps.

Avoid clicking links from strangers—and never install third-party apps suggested in chat. An antivirus app spots bad apps before they can cause you harm.

4. Phishing through social media

Marketplace scammers often operate through platforms like Facebook or Instagram. The approach is simple: connect quickly, make the deal sound easy, and push you into a scam outside the platform’s protections.

On Instagram, scammers might send you to fake checkout pages that steal payment details. On Facebook, they may impersonate buyers with fake profiles, complete with photos, job info, and years of history.

To stay safe, keep the conversation and payments on the platform if possible. A security app that spots scam sites automatically can keep you safe from these scams.

What’s at stake?

Losing money to a scam hurts—but that’s only part of the risk. Here’s what else can happen if you fall for a scam:

• Identity theft: If you hand over your full name, address, phone number, and banking info, scammers can buy items, take out loans in your name, or sell your data.
• Device compromise: Malware from fake apps or links can stay hidden, spying on you long after the scam is over.
• Long-term fraud: Once your data is out there, it can be reused or sold to other scammers.

Smart ways to stay safe when buying used items

There’s no need to avoid online marketplaces. It’s often safe enough if you stay alert and follow some simple rules:

1. Stick to official payment and messaging systems

Use the built-in tools that platforms offer. You should have no need to install third-party apps to arrange delivery or message on another platform.

2. Meet in person—safely

The old ways are often better than new. Handling the exchange face-to-face is less likely to result in getting scammed. So, if possible, arrange to meet in a public, well-lit place. Many police stations in the US even offer designated “exchange zones” specifically for marketplace deals.

3. Never click unfamiliar links

This includes links sent via chat, email, or text even if they seem to be about payment, tracking, or identity confirmation. Staying on the original platform is just the safest way.

4. Don’t download anything

Legitimate platforms won’t ask you to install apps just to confirm a transaction or verify delivery. If you’re asked to download anything, it’s likely a scam.

5. Slow down and check the details

• Does the profile have a long history and consistent activity?
• Are there real reviews or mutual friends?
• Is the price realistic for the item?

If anything feels off, it probably is.

Tools that help spot scams before you fall for them

Some threats are easy to miss. That’s why smart protection helps as a backup if you don’t notice the threat:

• Browsing protection: Warns you before landing on unsafe websites even if you click a bad link.
• Malware defense: Blocks malicious apps and files before they can infect your device.
• Banking protection: Makes sure you’re on a safe payment portal and not a scam banking site.

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With the right protection in place, you’re far less likely to fall victim—even if the scam goes unnoticed.

Stay cautious. Trust your instincts. And let smart tools help take the guesswork out of staying safe.