How to Avoid Scams on OfferUp
OfferUp is convenient, but scammers love it too. Learn how to spot stolen items and protect yourself with free verification.
🚩 OfferUp Scam Red Flags
Price Too Good to Be True
iPhone 15 Pro for $200? Brand new laptop for $100? Stolen goods are often priced low to sell fast.
Urgent "Must Sell Today"
Scammers create urgency to prevent you from doing due diligence. Legitimate sellers can wait.
Won't Provide Serial Number
If a seller refuses to share the IMEI or serial, they're hiding something. Walk away.
Wants Payment Outside App
Never pay via Zelle, Venmo, or wire transfer. Use OfferUp's built-in payment or cash at meetup.
How to Protect Yourself on OfferUp
Check Seller Verification
Look for OfferUp's TruYou badge. Check ratings, reviews, and how long they've been on the platform. New accounts with no history are risky.
Get the Serial Number First
Before agreeing to meet, ask: "Can you send me the IMEI/VIN/serial number so I can verify it?" This is normal and legitimate sellers will comply.
Verify with SafeOrStolen
Enter the identifier into SafeOrStolen—takes 3 seconds, first 2 checks are free. We search 100+ databases including police stolen property records.
Verify Now - FreeUse Community MeetUp Spots
OfferUp partners with police stations for safe meetup locations. Use them! Or any well-lit public place during daytime.
Re-Verify at Meetup
Bring SafeOrStolen's mobile app. Before paying, confirm the serial number on the actual item matches what was provided, and run one more check.
The Numbers Don't Lie
Average loss when buying stolen phones
Time to verify with SafeOrStolen
Databases we check
Buying on OfferUp? Verify First.
Don't become another scam statistic. Free verification in 3 seconds.