How to navigate Marketplace and spot scammers before they spot you!
Social Media Marketplaces can be a treasure trove for equestrians looking for great deals on tack and equipment. However, with so much opportunity, scammers are having a field day with our hard-earned money. At Tack Track®, we’re committed to ensuring our community shops safely, which is why we’ve compiled these essential tips to help you steer clear of scammers on social media.
Verify seller profiles:
Before engaging in any transaction, take a moment to check out the seller’s profile. There are a few key points to cover in this phase of your investigation:
- Check the page’s link. If it doesn’t match with the name of the account – this is a red flag.
- How old is the account? When did they join the Social Media Platform? If it is a suspiciously new account with very few images – this may be a red flag.
- A genuine seller usually has a history of activity and positive interactions. Marketplace reviews are helpful here.
- Are the comments turned off on the sale listing? This is often an indication that the seller doesn’t want to be outed as a scammer.
Look for secure payment methods:
Always opt for secure payment methods that offer buyer protection. While Marketplace encourages transactions to be completed in person, if you must pay online, use trusted platforms like PayPal that safeguard your purchase. If the seller insists on using the “Friends and Family” function of PayPal – this could be an indication that they are a scammer as it means the purchase is not protected.
Never pay a deposit:
Scammers will often insist you pay a deposit to hold or secure an item (that may not exist). Refrain from paying a deposit and always pay up front in person.
Insist on detailed photos and information:
Request multiple photos of the item from different angles, and don’t hesitate to ask for specifics. Scammers often use generic images or avoid providing detailed information. Genuine sellers will be forthcoming with the details and able to provide you with the specific photos you ask for.
Avoid too-good-to-be-true deals:
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Extreme discounts on high-value items should raise red flags. Trust your instincts and conduct due diligence before proceeding.
Arrange safe meetups:
For in-person transactions, choose public, well-lit areas and consider bringing a friend. Safety should be your priority.
There are many indications that someone may be trying to scam you – the best way to proceed is to be aware of possible risk factors and use your common sense. By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of Facebook Marketplace while minimising the risks.
Tack Track® offers secure and free database searching – if an item is listed in our database, you can verify if it has been stolen.
Getting started with Tack Track® is easy, just hit the register button and follow the steps. Remember, Tack Track® is here to support a safe and thriving equestrian community, both online and off.