FAQs
Many of the scams start with a generic inquiry asking if the item is still available or if you are the original owner. The reason for this is to quickly test to see if the seller is responsive. There's generally no mention of the item you're selling or any questions specific to the item.
How can you tell if a Craigslist scammer is selling? ›
If a seller encourages you to send a down payment or any form of money before receiving your item, this is a strong indication that they are trying to scam buyers. Some Craigslist scammers may ask you to send money to a foreign address because they “have suddenly been stationed overseas,” or something similar.
Why do people on Craigslist want to send a verification code? ›
Craigslist text scams can start with the other party saying they want to confirm you aren't a scammer. Don't give out any codes sent to your phone, especially if it says it's for verifying your identity. The code is for a Google Voice account the scammer set up using your number.
How do I make sure I am not being scammed on Craigslist? ›
6 common Craigslist scams and how to avoid them
- Email or texting phishing scams. ...
- Don't. ...
- Vague, short responses riddled with spelling errors. ...
- A buyer asks you to wire or transfer money, or they ask you to send a cashier's check or money order. ...
- Don't. ...
- Buyer refuses to meet you in person. ...
- The verification code scam.
Do people not use Craigslist anymore? ›
Do People Still Use Craigslist? Absolutely. You can search your local area on Craigslist and find used furniture, cars, rentals, and even jobs. However, because so many Craigslist alternatives exist, it is no longer a one-stop shopping powerhouse when it debuted in 1995.
Why is Craigslist blocking me? ›
Craigslist states that “you may post to one category and in one city, no more than once every 48 hours.” So, if you attempt to post too many ads in a day or post the same ad multiple times, it's going to trigger Craigslist to remove them and block your IP address.
How to spot a fake Craigslist ad? ›
Scammers often use fake sites to lure buyers into paying for items that don't exist. Always check the URL before finalizing a purchase. Craigslist does not back any transaction on its site. If you receive an email or text trying to sell you purchase protection, you're looking at a scam.
Why is Craigslist so sketchy? ›
Craigslist is a legitimate website, and most Craigslist posts are legitimate and trustworthy as well. However, just like any other online platform, it can be used by scammers. Some people may post fraudulent listings only pretending to sell goods or services, so take precautions to ensure your safety.
Why do people spell out phone numbers on Craigslist? ›
Craigslist blocks number written more than one time, so when someone has more than two ads, they spell out the rest.
What can a scammer do with a verification code? ›
If you give them the code, they can log into your account and transfer all the money out of your savings or investment accounts. Never give your verification code to someone else. It's only for you to log into your account. Anyone who asks you for your account verification code is a scammer.
Click "Reply."
A window with response options will appear. To use your default mail program, click the blue response link at the top. If you use one of the listed webmail services, click the corresponding icon.
How to spot a Craigslist scammer buyer? ›
Be familiar with Craigslist
Scammers often create lookalike sites to lure buyers into paying for items that don't exist. Always confirm the URL before finalizing a purchase. Craigslist does not back any transaction on its site. If you're offered purchase protection at a price, you're looking at a scam.
How to verify a Craigslist seller? ›
- Talk to the person on the phone, if possible, about the deal. If you have to email them first to make the initial contact, ask them for their phone number so you can talk more about the item. ...
- Meet the person you're doing business with in a public place, such as a coffee shop. ...
- Complete your transaction in cash.
What can a Craigslist scammer do with my email? ›
What Can Scammers Do With Your Email Address?
- Target you with sophisticated phishing emails.
- Find more sensitive information about you — including where you live.
- Attempt to hack into your social media or other online accounts.
- Impersonate you and scam your friends and family.
How to spot a rental scammer on Craigslist? ›
What are the most common signs of a rental scam? Rental scams often have listings with prices that seem too good to be true. They might pressure you to make quick decisions, ask for rent or deposit without a signed lease, or avoid meeting in person.
What does a red flag on Craigslist mean? ›
A Craigslist flag marks Craigslist advertising as inappropriate, and if enough people flag the ad, it will be automatically removed. You can also contact Craigslist about inappropriate content – or recommend posts for Best of Craigslist, a kind of Craigslist Hall of Fame.
Can you see how many people viewed your Craigslist ad? ›
While there is no accurate way of tracking views on your Craigslist ads without violating Craigslist's rules, that's totally fine because views are not what you should be worried about anyway.
Why do Craigslist buyers ask for a phone number? ›
Scammers are now responding to ads but tricking sellers into thinking they are busy at work and can't talk until later. Instead of leaving you with a contact number, they request you enter your phone number into a website that “stores information” for them. Don't fall for it!