Common Scams on OfferUp and Ways to Prevent them: Identifying and Evading Ten Typical Deceptions on this Online Marketplace

When buying and selling locally, platforms like OfferUp can be a godsend-but watch out for these scammers lurking around every corner. With over 150 million downloads and 30 million yearly transactions, there's plenty of opportunity for fraudsters to target the unsuspecting.

From fake listings, overpayment schemes, and shipping invoice swindles to gift card scams, these con artists use a variety of tricks to snatch your money or sensitive data. But fear not, for we've got your back. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down 10 common OfferUp scams, teach you how to spot them, and show you how to dodge 'em like a pro. Plus, we'll share some practical safety tips and let you know what to do if you find yourself ensnared in a scam.

Oh, and remember, your internet traffic remains hidden when you use Our Website. If you're looking to safeguard your personal information during any online transaction or shield yourself from prying eyes, our site's VPN is just the ticket. It encrypts your connection and keeps your juicy details under wraps.

So let's dive right in and see how to keep your coins and data safe on OfferUp.

What is an OfferUp Scam?

To understand these sneaky scams, it's crucial to first grasp how OfferUp operates. Essentially, it's a more modern version of Craigslist: you create a listing with pics and a price, communicate with potential buyers/sellers via OfferUp's in-app messaging service, and arrange a meetup or shipment to complete the sale.

OfferUp is legit, providing user ratings, TruYou verification (which confirms ID with government ID), and secure in-app payments. But scammers are smart, often skirting these safeguards by attempting to coax you off the platform or push risky payment methods. In other words, safety depends on your vigilance.

How do scammers operate on OfferUp?

Scammers come in all shapes and sizes and employ various tricks to deceive you. They create fake profiles, use an alluring tone or cook up heart-wrenching tales, or entice you with 'too good to be true' offers. Once they have your attention, they'll encourage you to move off the app's messaging system, claiming it's easier to chat via text or email. This, my friend, is a big red flag—con artists aim to dodge OfferUp's protections.

Some will request personal information for "verification purposes" or insist you send money outside the app using gift cards or wire transfers. Others establish fake OfferUp lookalike websites to pilfer your login credentials or credit card information. These tactics aren't exclusive to OfferUp—to learn more about keeping yourself safe online, check out our full guide on shopping online security.

How Transactions Work on OfferUp

OfferUp transactions are simple as pie:

Buyer finds an item on the OfferUp site or app.
The buyer contacts the seller via in-app messaging to ask questions or negotiate a price.
They agree on a meetup location or shipping method.
For local deals, payment is typically cash in person. For shipped items, OfferUp's in-app payment system is your safest bet.
After the transaction, buyers and sellers can leave feedback on each other.

OfferUp's built-in processes help protect against payment fraud. The moment you step outside these steps—like clicking a random link or switching to email or text—the risk of a scam skyrockets.

Is OfferUp safe to use?

OfferUp is a well-established platform, facilitating countless successful deals. However, no marketplace is invincible to internet fraud. That's why OfferUp has designed safety features to protect buyers and sellers.

OfferUp's Safety Features

Verified user badges: Users can earn a verified badge by sharing a form of ID, allowing others to see they're dealing with a real person.
Rating System: Buyers and sellers can rate each other after a transaction, providing others with insight into their experience.
In-app messaging: OfferUp encourages communication within the platform, eliminating the need to share email addresses, phone numbers, or other personal info.
Payment Protection: OfferUp provides a 2-day purchase protection policy for shipped items, so you can file a claim if something goes awry.
Reporting Features: OfferUp allows you to flag suspicious profiles or listings, potentially leading to account removal.

Common Risks when using OfferUp

Even with these protections, using OfferUp still comes with certain risks—whether you're a buyer or a seller.

Buyer vs. Seller Risks: Who is more vulnerable?

While both parties face unique threats, let's focus on the two most vulnerable groups. Buyers are susceptible to being lured in by low prices, nonexistent products, or phishing scams that lead them off-platform. They're often asked to use non-standard payment methods or click suspicious links, potentially resulting in stolen info or money loss.

Meanwhile, sellers are vulnerable to overpayment schemes (where buyers send bad checks and request partial refunds), fraudulent credit card payments, or even physical danger if they meet someone in an isolated area. Additionally, both groups can encounter pushy, aggressive behavior—scammers often try to rush the deal, claiming there's another buyer ready to snatch up the item.

In such situations, slow things down and be on your guard. Scammers rely on urgency—legit buyers and sellers understand the need for caution. Don't hesitate to block or report users who cross the line.

10 Common OfferUp Scams and How to Spot Them

Scammers exploit emotions, preying on unsuspecting buyers and sellers. Familiarize yourself with their tactics, and you'll be well-equipped to spot and dodge their tricks. Here are ten common ways scammers prey on people on OfferUp.

1. Fake OfferUp Websites (phishing scams)

How Scammers Trick Users with Fake Sites

Scammers may send links to fake OfferUp websites or third-party payment sites. You might be conversing with a "buyer" or "seller" who suddenly asks you to click a link, claiming it's to complete the sale or view a better deal.

The link leads to a fake site, designed to look identical to OfferUp, complete with familiar colors, logos, and layout. You might not notice anything unusual—some fake URLs even look deceptively legit, like "offeruup.com." If you log in or enter payment information on this fake site, scammers can pilfer your info. In some cases, these sites may also trigger malware downloads. If you land on a dodgy page, close it immediately, and report the sender if possible. You can also block the site.

How to Verify You're on the Real OfferUp

Check the URL: The official URL is offerup.com. You can also use the official app.
Don't click unrequested links: If someone sends a suspicious link, don't open it. Instead, navigate to OfferUp through your browser or app.
Look for secured HTTPS: A secure site should display "https://" and a padlock in the address bar—but keep in mind, scammers can fake this, too.
Use the official app: Only download OfferUp from trusted app stores like the App Store or Google Play.

2. Overpayment Scams

How this Scam Works

An rookie buyer might say they accidentally sent you a payment for more than the agreed price and ask you to return the extra amount. The catch? Their original payment either bounces or was made with a stolen check or fake funds.

For example, you list an iPhone X for $600, and the buyer claims they "mistakenly" sent $700 and insist you refund $100. Once you send it, you discover their payment was fraudulent. They walk away with your iPhone X and the extra $100 you shelled out—and you're left high and dry with nothing.

Warning Signs

The buyer claims they've sent "more money than asked" or suggests a return on your part.
They want you to use a non-standard method of payment, like gift cards or cash apps.
They refuse to use OfferUp's integrated payment system.
They have zero or poor ratings on the platform.
The conversation feels rushed or pushy.

Remember, if someone offers more than the asking price, tread carefully. Wait for the payment to clear, especially if it's a check. Or simply decline any request to use alternative payment methods.

3. Fake Verification Code Requests

A buyer or seller might say something like, "I need to send you a code to confirm you're real," or claim it's essential for fraud prevention. Then, you receive a text or call with a verification code, often tied to your phone number or online accounts.

If you share that code, scammers can potentially take control of your accounts or phone number. Reminder: OfferUp never requires any kind of code exchange outside the app. If someone asks, it's a scam.

Bonus Tip: If you've shared a code or suspect a breach, you can use our website's ID Alerts to check if your personal info has leaked on the dark web. Combine this with a VPN to remain well-informed about account security.

4. Empty-Box Scam

The "empty box" scam is a devious bait-and-switch aimed at conning unsuspecting buyers who purchase items to be shipped. You pay through the app, and the seller ships a box—but it's empty. They might even provide a real tracking number. You see "delivered" in the shipping updates, and then you open the darn thing… and find nothing.

The scammer relies on buyers neglecting close readings of the description. They bury a line like "(box only)" or "photo for collector" deep in a lengthy product description, hinting that you're buying packaging or a picture, not the actual item. After the sale, they vanish, delete their profile, or deny responsibility.

Defense Strategies

Read listings thoroughly to spot hidden caveats like "box only" or "(just the picture)."
Ask for photos of the actual item, not just the box.
Examine the seller's ratings and feedback.
Opt for OfferUp's shipping option to receive 2-day purchase protection in case something goes awry.

5. Counterfeit Products and "Too Good to Be True" Offers

Fake items are an ongoing problem on online marketplaces. Considering the global counterfeit goods industry is worth $2 trillion, it's no surprise you might encounter fakes on OfferUp. You could stumble upon high-end products or collectibles priced well below market value. And bam!—you end up with a fake product.

Common Fake Products Sold on OfferUp

Luxury purses and wallets (often "designer" brand names).
Popular wireless earbuds or headphones.
Top-brand sneakers, sports shoes, or popular fashion brands.
Smartphones marketed as the latest models.
Limited-edition sports jerseys or special event memorabilia.

Look for red flags like suspiciously low prices, suspicious-looking photos, or sketchy sellers with few or poor ratings. If something gives you pause, ask for more specific photos, especially close-ups of the serial numbers, logos, or packaging. Inspecting the item in person can help if you're buying something expensive.

6. Fake Accounts with Multiple Similar Listings

Scammers frequently create fake profiles on OfferUp, filling them with numerous listings—often duplicates of each other. These are called "burner" accounts, crafted solely for scamming. This tactic is commonly used for high-demand items like new gaming consoles, phones, or designer goods.

The listings advertise remarkable deals, snatch your dough, and vamoose without a trace.

Identifying Suspicious Sellers

No purchase or sales history: The account was created yesterday, but it's flooded with brand-new, pricey electronics.
Stock images: All product photos look overly professional or generic.
Repetitive postings: The listing appears multiple times under one account.
Few or suspicious ratings: Either there are none, or the reviews all seem too good to be true.

Verifying a Seller's Reputation

Check the account creation date: A new seller isn't always suspicious—but if the account is new yet overflowing with listings, proceed with caution.
Examine reviews and ratings: Are they real interactions, or do they seem fake?
Look for the TruYou verification badge: This verifies the user has confirmed their identity with OfferUp.
Perform a reverse image search: This may reveal if photos were pilfered from other sites.

7. Buyers/Sellers who claim to be "out of the country"

"I'm overseas now but need to sell my car back home," or "I'm deployed, so I need to do a quick sale." These lines may tug at your heartstrings, but they're frequently part of a scam. They can't meet face-to-face and will pressure you to pay upfront. Once you send the money, the item never arrives.

They might also claim a friend or delivery service will manage the exchange for them. They'll press you to wire funds or pay using unsecured methods, like gift cards or direct transfers.

If someone says they're abroad, consider it a major red flag—and don't proceed with the deal.

8. Shipping Fee Scams

Scammers often concoct fake shipping arrangements to get you off the OfferUp platform. For example, a seller might claim they'll use FedEx or UPS and send you a fake invoice that looks like it's from the shipping company—requiring extra payment for "shipping fees."

Sellers can also be targeted, with a buyer asking for a different shipping method. They'll then send a fake payment receipt, hoping you'll ship the item without verifying payment.

Either way, the scammer's objective is to steer you away from OfferUp's payment system to extract extra fees.

Protect yourself:

Only pay shipping through OfferUp's official shipping label.
Refuse payment outside the app.
If a seller demands extra payment after payment has been made, don't yield.

9. Alternative Payment Method Scams

Scammers aim to avoid OfferUp's payment system because it offers some purchase protection. They may say their account "froze" or claim a payment won't go through. If you're meeting in person, a buyer might claim they've hit a daily cash withdrawal limit.

Why Avoid OfferUp's Payments:

Suspicious transactions are easier to detect within OfferUp's system.
There's a paper trail if you pay or receive funds through the app.
Chargebacks are easier through official payment channels.
Gift cards are untraceable once redeemed.

Safe Payment Methods to Use:

OfferUp's built-in payment system: Good for shipped items.
Cash: Suitable for in-person deals, provided you meet in public locations.
Credit card: Allows you to file a chargeback if scammed.

In general, use secure payment channels when shopping online to keep yourself protected.

10. Fake Customer Support Scams

How Scammers Impersonate OfferUp's Support:

A scammer might reach out pretending to be from OfferUp's support team. They'll say your account has a problem or claim you need to verify payment details, then send you a link to a fake site where you're asked to enter your login or credit card information.

Or you might stumble upon a listing that says, "Need OfferUp to resolve an issue? Contact this special helpline." That "helpline" is a scam. The person on the other end may attempt to trick you into downloading remote-access software or demand a "processing fee" for fake customer support.

Authentic Ways to Contact OfferUp:

Only contact OfferUp through official channels—either in the app or via the "Contact Us" section on offerup.com. Remember, OfferUp's staff will never ask for your password, verification codes, or payment information.

How to Avoid Getting Scammed on OfferUp

Each scam comes with its own warning signs, but these universal tips can shield both buyers and sellers on OfferUp:

Tips for Buyers to Stay Safe

Stick to in-app messaging: If someone asks to chat elsewhere, exercise caution.
Inspect items in person: If possible, check the item before paying.
Use safe payment methods: OfferUp's built-in payment system or cash in a public place are your safest options.
Compare prices: Be wary of prices that seem unusually low.
Research the seller: Look at their profile, ratings, and history before agreeing to a deal.
Avoid sharing personal data: Don't give out your full name, phone number, or address unless absolutely necessary for shipping.

Tips for Sellers to Avoid Scammers

Stay on OfferUp's platform: To maintain a record of the conversation.
Wait for payment to clear: Don't ship the item until you're certain the payment is valid.
Beware of checks and overpayments: Be wary if a buyer offers payment through an unusual method.
Document items: Take photos, note serial numbers, and keep proof in case you need it.
Meet in public: If conducting local pickups, find safe places with foot traffic or near police stations if permitted.
Be suspicious of long-distance excuses: If the buyer seems unavailable for a face-to-face meeting, be on guard.

Importance of Meeting in Safe Locations

Local transactions often mean meeting face-to-face. It's best to meet where other people are nearby. If the buyer or seller insists on isolated spots, that's a red flag. Potential safe locations include:

Police-station parking lots.
Busy coffee shops or mall food courts.
Bank lobbies (for large cash transactions).
Grocery store lots with security cameras.

If someone refuses to meet in a public or safe location, abandon the deal.

Some scammers seek more than your money—they covet your personal info. They might ask for your phone number, email, or even verification codes under the guise of "verification" or "shipping updates." Don't cooperate. Remember:

Never give your Social Security Number: Nobody on OfferUp will ever need it.
Guard your address: Only share your address if it's necessary for shipping and you trust the other party.
Don't share codes: Never disclose verification codes.

What to do if you get scammed on OfferUp

Slip-ups can happen—here's what to do if you get scammed on OfferUp.

Reporting a Scam to OfferUp

Gather evidence: Save screenshots of conversations, the listing, or any relevant details.
Use the 'Report' feature:** In the app, find the user's profile or the listing, and report suspicious behavior.
Contact OfferUp support: Describe your predicament. They might ask for the conversation history.
Freeze your credit: If sensitive info was exposed, freeze your credit with the major bureaus to prevent identity theft. Alert the fraud departments, too.
Change your OfferUp password: Alter your OfferUp password promptly if you suspect your account was compromised. Update any passwords that share the same credentials, as well.
Warn others: If possible, leave an accurate rating to warn the community.

Contacting Law Enforcement

If you've suffered a significant financial loss or felt threatened:

File a police report: Deliver the evidence, such as chat logs, payment details, and any personal info the scammer provided. Police reports are crucial for insurance claims or disputing charges.
Notify federal agencies: Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the FBI's IC3 can record your case.
Preserve records: Keep copies of everything you submit, including the police report, emails, receipts, and chat logs.

Disputing Payments and Recovering Your Money

When attempting to dispute a transaction, the process varies based on the payment method.

OfferUp's in-app payments: Contact OfferUp immediately if you believe you were scammed to see if you can freeze or reverse the transaction.
Credit card: Phone your credit card company immediately and request a chargeback. They may investigate on your behalf.
Bank transfers: Speak with your bank immediately. Transfers can sometimes be reversed if caught early.
Cash: Recovering cash in exchange is impossible.
Gift cards or cryptocurrency: Tracing or retrieving these is difficult due to their anonymity, so scammers love them.

Remember: Time is of the essence. Act immediately—whether contacting your bank, card provider, or OfferUp—to heighten your chances of recovering lost funds.

If a scam caused substantial financial losses, ponder pursuing legal action through small claims court. This may require identifying the scammer's actual identity, which can be challenging if they used false details.

No matter the outcome, consider taking steps to safeguard yourself moving forward, such as watching for suspicious behavior, using secure payment channels, and using a VPN to shield your browsing. Identity theft protection services can also be useful for detecting misuse of your information and providing support in recovery.

Bonus Tip: Our Website's Identity Defender Suite features Credit Scanner and ID Alerts to aid in detecting misuse of your information. It comes with included ID Threat Insurance to assist with recovery.

FAQ: Common Questions about OfferUp Scams

Will OfferUp refund me if I get scammed?

OfferUp may issue a refund if you paid via its in-app payment feature with 2-day purchase protection. If the scam occurred outside its payment system, OfferUp likely won't recoup your lost funds. Always check OfferUp's protection policy, and act swiftly if you suspect a scam—filing a claim can improve your chances of recovery.

Is it safe to give out my phone number on OfferUp?

It's best to avoid sharing your phone number unless necessary. OfferUp advocates keeping communication within its in-app messaging system to minimize scams. Giving out your number can expose you to phishing scams or verification code scams. If a phone number is essential for a meetup, exercise caution and consider using a secondary phone number.

How to spot a scammer on OfferUp (buyers & sellers)?

Look for:

Requests to move the conversation off OfferUp.
Overpayment attempts or demands for non-standard payment methods.
Incomplete or suspicious-looking profiles.
Short, vague listings—especially with suspiciously low prices.
Pressure to act immediately.
User accounts marked with indicators of fraud or suspicious activity.

If something feels off, heed your instincts and steer clear of the deal.

What payment methods are safest on OfferUp?

OfferUp's built-in payment system: Offers 2-day purchase protection for shipped items.
Cash in a public place: Suitable for local deals—but always be mindful of safety when carrying cash.
Credit card: Lets you file a chargeback if scammed.

Can OfferUp ban scammers?

Yes—OfferUp bans accounts that violate its user policy. A large number of users reporting a profile for fraudulent activity may prompt OfferUp to investigate and remove the account. Keep in mind, scammers can create new profiles, so consistent reports can contribute to the platform's overall safety.

Can OfferUp be trusted?

Yes—OfferUp is a legitimate platform used by millions. However, like any online marketplace, it isn't 100% immune to scams. Follow our tips to use OfferUp more safely.

Be cautious when dealing with users who push for moving conversations off the OfferUp messaging platform or request personal information.
Be wary of users with no ratings, poor ratings, or who have multiple similar listings.
Watch out for sellers who claim to be out of the country or deployed, as these situations often lead to scams.
Avoid paying for shipping fees outside the OfferUp platform. Use OfferUp's built-in shipping label for any shipped transactions.
Be suspicious of users demanding alternative payment methods, such as gift cards or wire transfers.
Shoppers should be vigilant about fake listings, overpayment schemes, and counterfeit products, verifying product photos and descriptions closely.
Consider using Our Website's VPN and ID Alerts services to protect personal information and safeguard online transactions.

Common Scams on OfferUp and Ways to Prevent them: Identifying and Evading Ten Typical Deceptions on this Online Marketplace