Craigs Classifieds

Stay Alert: Avoid Scams While Buying or Selling

Learn how to recognize red flags and follow essential safety tips to protect yourself when using our Marketplace.

Your safety is our priority. That’s why we’ve taken steps to prevent fraud by limiting access from outside the United States and requiring all potential buyers to log in before contacting sellers. Additionally, your email address remains hidden, and all communication takes place through our secure internal messaging system.

However, staying safe also depends on you. Be aware of suspicious behavior and take the necessary steps to protect yourself if something doesn’t feel right.
 

Warning Signs for Sellers

Watch out for the following red flags when dealing with potential buyers:

• A buyer requests account verification using a code from Google or another platform.

• You're paid in cash but aren't given the full amount — always double-check cash payments, especially for large sales.

• Payment is offered through uncommon or obscure payment apps.

• The buyer claims they are overseas or currently out of the country.

• You receive messages about high-value items from out-of-state or international contacts. These messages often come via text or email and are generic in nature.

• A buyer offers to overpay with a money order or cashier’s check and asks you to return the difference via a payment service like Western Union. These checks often bounce after deposit, and banks will hold you responsible for the full amount, including any funds you’ve already returned.

• The buyer says someone else (a third-party service) will handle pickup or delivery.

• You receive vague or poorly written messages unrelated to your specific listing.

• You're asked to use a third-party report or authentication link from an unknown source.

• A buyer sends a suspicious link resembling a login page—never click on strange links.

• Someone claims our Marketplace will manage or guarantee the transaction.
  Important: We do not process transactions or work with any payment providers on your behalf.

• A seller instructs you to wire funds — this is almost always a scam.
   

Red Flags for Buyers

Be cautious of the following when considering a purchase:

• Listing photos appear stock, generic, or are found on multiple websites.

• The item lacks branding or typical product identifiers.

• Backgrounds in the photos don’t match the local area (e.g., palm trees in a region that doesn’t have them).

• The seller claims the transaction will be handled by our Marketplace.

• Reminder: We never facilitate payments or offer warranties, or purchase protection.

• You’re told a third party will deliver the item.

• The seller says our Marketplace provides buyer protection — this is false.
   

Smart Practices for All Users

• Never share private information that isn’t already public.

• Be cautious when dealing with users outside your local area — especially internationally.

• Request documentation to support the seller's claims.

• Keep a copy or screenshot of the listing for your records.

• Make the sale terms clear in advance.

• For larger deals, write up a simple bill of sale and consider notarizing the transaction together.

• Meet in well-lit public spaces—police departments and retail store parking lots often have video surveillance for safe exchanges.

• When using mobile payment platforms (e.g., Apple Pay, Venmo), only send money once you've seen the pet or item in person.

• Be wary of users who avoid phone calls or insist on only messaging.

• Set expectations early to avoid misunderstandings during the meetup.
   

Reporting Fraud or Suspicious Activity

If you come across a suspicious listing, use the report listing and complete the e-mail to report it. Our team will investigate and take action if necessary.

For messages from individuals outside your region, trust your instincts. If something feels off, it’s okay to ignore or decline the offer. You can also report online fraud attempts to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).