Avoid Scams

Deal locally, face-to-face. Follow this one rule to avoid most scam attempts.

• Do not extend payment to anyone you have not met in person.
• Beware offers involving shipping - deal with locals you can meet in person.
• Never wire funds (e.g. Western Union) - anyone who asks you to is a scammer.
• Don't accept cashier/certified checks or money orders - banks cash fakes, then hold you responsible.
• Transactions are between users only, no third party provides a "guarantee".
• Never give out financial info (bank account, social security, paypal account, etc).
• Do not rent or purchase sight-unseen—that amazing "deal" may not exist.

 

Who should I notify about fraud or scam attempts?

United States

• Internet Fraud Complaint Center
• FTC Video: How to report scams to the FTC
• FTC complaint form and hotline: 877-FTC-HELP (877-382-4357)
• Consumer Sentinel/Military (for armed service members and families)
• SIIA Software and Content Piracy reporting
• Ohio Attorney General Consumer Complaints
• New York Attorney General, Avoid Online Investment Fraud

Canada

• Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or 888-495-8501 (toll-free)
• Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)

If you are defrauded by someone you met in person, contact your local police department.

If you suspect that a post on this site may be connected to a scam, please notify us.