Don’t make marketplace mistakes
Here’s how to safely shop on Facebook marketplace
This little piggy went to market(place)
We all know the internet can be a dangerous place and we need to be careful, but somehow the convenience and familiarity of Facebook marketplace has us letting our guard down. Let’s look at how to safely shop on facebook market place.
As useful and exciting as shopping on this platform can be, there are still dangers involved and it’s best to keep your wits about you when you’re online bargain hunting.
It’s still an online/real world cross over.
Just like craig’s list and OLX, FB Marketplace is nothing but a platform connecting real world sellers with real world buyers. And just like those more well-known platforms are mostly unregulated and free-for-all spaces, marketplace also doesn’t have any real inherent safety features.
Yes. User ratings can help, but as with Google reviews and business ratings online- these credentials can be bought.
Check locations, and snoop around.
Use your common sense. Before you agree to a sale, try to get as much information as possible from the seller and about the seller. (Or buyer.)
Keep it public.
NEVER. AGREE. TO. A. PRIVATE. MEETING. Even if you don’t want to meet at a restaurant or coffee shop, at least pick a public parking lot or space with other people around and proper lighting if you are doing it at night. It’s also a good idea to either go with someone, or at least let someone know when and where you are going. Share the details of the person you are meeting and even share your live location with someone you trust. You can never be too safe.
COD or POD
Never pay up front! If the seller won’t agree to Cash On Delivery (COD), or Payment On Delivery (POD), don’t waste your time. You should really be very careful about sending or transferring money if you haven’t seen the item physically. It’s ok if you agree to a certain deposit or even a transport fee, but never pay 100% up front. This is a sure way to lose your money and get scammed out of your purchase.
There are many ways to stay safe online and in the real world and we suggest you read on for even more personal safety tips.
How To Buy and Sell Safely on Facebook Marketplace
Here are some tips from Facebook themselves:
Still need inspiration to stay safe?
Facebook Marketplace horror stories
Also read our article on Thoughtful Thrifting.
