Marketplace scams can target both buyers and sellers. The common pattern is pressure to move outside normal checks, trust a screenshot or link, or send money or goods before payment is independently verified.
Use the checks below to slow the situation down, verify the claim through a separate route and avoid giving a suspicious contact more information or control.
Keep verification independent
Treat courier stories, deposits, payment links and requests to use an unfamiliar service cautiously. Check any payment or delivery claim through the real provider rather than through a link sent by the other person.
Do not trust payment screenshots
A screenshot, email or message claiming payment has been sent is not the same as cleared money in your own account. Sellers should verify payment independently before handing over or posting an item.
Be careful when moved off-platform
Moving immediately to text, email or another messaging service can make it harder to review the original listing and report the account. Treat pressure to leave Marketplace as a reason to slow down.
Check the profile but do not rely on it
Marketplace ratings, account age and profile details can provide context, but they are not proof of identity or honesty. Facebook itself notes that seller ratings are not verification that a purchase occurred.
Report concerns
Use Facebook Marketplace’s reporting tools for suspicious sellers, listings or conduct. If you transferred money or disclosed banking information, contact your bank through a trusted route as well.
Practical checklist
Quick checklist
- Verify payment in your own bank or payment account
- Do not trust screenshots as proof of payment
- Be cautious if someone insists on moving off-platform
- Check courier claims independently
- Treat profiles and ratings as context, not proof
- Report suspicious Marketplace activity through Facebook
Official and primary guidance
Scam techniques, platform features and reporting routes change. These sources were checked when this guide was updated: