The 5 Most Common Facebook Marketplace Scams
1. Stolen Items (Most Dangerous)
The Scam:
Thieves sell stolen phones, laptops, and electronics at below-market prices. You buy it, then Apple or the original owner remotely locks the device.
How to Avoid:
Always check the IMEI, serial number, or VIN before buying. Use SafeOrStolen's free verification tool.
2. Fake Payment Requests
Scammer sends a fake Zelle/Venmo "verification" link or asks you to pay with gift cards. Once paid, they disappear.
Protection: Only pay in person with cash, or use Facebook's checkout system.
3. Overpayment Scams
Buyer "accidentally" sends more than the asking price, asks you to refund the difference. Their original payment bounces.
Protection: Never refund overpayments. Wait for payments to fully clear.
4. Fake Listings
Stolen photos, prices too good to be true, seller refuses to meet in person.
Protection: Reverse image search the photos. Insist on seeing items in person.
5. Bait and Switch
Listing shows a quality item, but you're given a damaged or different product at meetup.
Protection: Inspect items thoroughly before paying. Test electronics.
How to Verify Items Before Buying
Use SafeOrStolen's Free Verification
IMEI Check
For phones & tablets
VIN Lookup
For cars & vehicles
Serial Number
For laptops & electronics
Red Flags to Watch For
🚩 Avoid These Sellers
- Price way below market value
- New account with no history
- Won't meet in person
- Refuses to show IMEI/serial
- Pressures you to decide fast
✅ Safe Seller Signs
- Established profile with history
- Reasonable market pricing
- Willing to meet at police station
- Shows IMEI/serial freely
- Has original receipt/box
Safe Meeting Tips
- Meet at a police station "safe trade spot"
- Bring a friend
- Meet during daylight hours
- Test electronics fully before paying
- Verify IMEI/VIN on the spot with SafeOrStolen app
Don't Get Scammed
Check any item in 3 seconds before you buy. SafeOrStolen is the only mobile app for stolen item verification.