How to Verify Craigslist Items Before Meeting
Craigslist is full of great deals—but also stolen goods. Learn how to protect yourself with free verification before every meetup.
Why Craigslist Verification Matters
No Buyer Protection
Unlike eBay, Craigslist has no buyer protection. Once you pay cash, it's gone.
Anonymous Sellers
Sellers are anonymous, making it easy for thieves to fence stolen goods.
Free Verification
SafeOrStolen lets you verify items for free before you meet—takes 3 seconds.
The Craigslist Verification Checklist
Ask for the Serial Number BEFORE Meeting
Text or email the seller and request the identifier. Legitimate sellers will provide it. If they refuse, walk away.
What to ask for:
- • Phones: "Can you send the IMEI? Just dial *#06#"
- • Cars: "What's the VIN? It's on the dashboard"
- • Laptops: "Can you send the serial number from System Settings?"
Verify with SafeOrStolen
Enter the identifier into our free tool. We check 100+ databases including NCIC, NICB, and carrier blacklists.
Verify NowMeet at a Safe Location
Many police departments have "safe exchange zones" in their parking lots with cameras. Use them!
Pro tip: Google "police safe exchange zone near me" to find one.
Verify in Person with the App
At the meetup, use SafeOrStolen's mobile app to scan the item and confirm the serial number matches what was provided.
Don't Risk It—Verify Before You Meet
Your first 2 checks are free. Takes 3 seconds. Could save you thousands.
Verify an Item Now