PROTECT YOURSELF

General Safety

Although the vast majority of users are honest and well-intentioned, all interactions involve some level of risk. Please use common sense and caution when communicating or meeting with others.

In-Person Transactions

Meeting someone for the first time always requires care. To stay safe:

 Meet only in public places (banks, cafés, police departments).

 Never invite strangers into your home or meet in isolated locations.

 Be extra cautious with high-value items.

 Inform a friend or family member about where you are going.

 Trust your instincts, if something feels off, walk away.

Scams

Scammers may pretend to be legitimate users or trusted authorities to obtain money or personal information. Understanding common tactics helps you avoid fraud. Knowing common tactics helps you avoid fraud. Common Scam Tactics:

 Sense of Urgency: Scammers pressure you to act quickly by claiming the offer will expire or your account will be suspended.

 Too Good to Be True: Unusually low prices or high payments are used to trigger excitement and reduce caution.

 Fake Authority or Identity: Scammers pretend to be professionals, military members, companies, or officials to gain trust.

 Overpayment Schemes: They send a check for more than the agreed amount and ask you to return the difference.

 Request for Verification Codes: Any request for a code sent to your phone or email is always a scam.

 Shipping or Third- Party Delivery: Scammers avoid in-person meetings by claiming the item will be shipped.

 Emotional or Personal Stories: Detailed stories are used to create sympathy and lower your guard.

 Requests for Personal Information: Asking for ID numbers, addresses, or financial details under false pretenses.

 Fake Secure Payment Claims: Statements like “100% safe,” “buyer protection guaranteed,” or “verified transaction.”

 

 

 

Avoiding Scams

Never:

 Send or accept payment before receiving the goods or services.

 Wire money or use gift cards.

 Inform the other that you will have a significant amount of cash when you meet the other party.

 Deposit checks on behalf of others.

 Share financial details (bank accounts, payment app logins).

 Share personal data (SSN, ID numbers, licenses).

Be cautious of:

 Shipping or third-party delivery offers.

 “Guaranteed” payments or escrow service claims.

 Requests for verification codes.

A legitimate interaction usually:

 Uses platform messaging tools.

 Focuses on a specific item or service.

 Arranges a safe, public meeting.

Phishing

Phishing attempts are designed to steal passwords or personal information. Be cautious of messages asking you to:

 Click login links.

 Share verification codes.

 Complete forms on external websites.

 Download attachments.

If you suspect phishing, stop communicating immediately and secure your account.

Reporting Scams

If you encounter a scam:

 Flag suspicious postings or messages on the platform.

 Report fraud attempts to the appropriate authorities.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC), FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), or your State Attorney General.

Harassment

If you feel threatened or harassed:

 Report abusive postings or messages immediately.

 Block unwanted contacts when possible.

 Contact law enforcement if there is a risk to your safety.