Buying And Selling Scam Format Apr 2026

They claim they are currently out of the country (often military or business travel) and must ship the item through a "secure" third party.

The seller insists on using a specific "protection" service or shipping company you’ve never heard of.

They claim the extra money is for "shipping costs" or was a "clerical error." buying and selling scam format

Online shopping should be a win-win. By recognizing these formats, you ensure that the only thing being "sold" isn't your own security. If you'd like, I can: Draft a you can share on social media

They ask you to wire the excess funds back to them or a third-party "mover." They claim they are currently out of the

The scammer is actually using your phone number to set up a Google Voice account or reset your password. They can then use your identity to scam others, leaving you legally vulnerable. 🛡️ How to Stay Safe

The convenience of online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and eBay has revolutionized how we shop. However, it has also created a playground for sophisticated fraudsters. Today’s scams aren’t just "bad luck"—they are carefully scripted "formats" designed to exploit human psychology. By recognizing these formats, you ensure that the

They tell you they are sending a Google verification code to your phone and ask you to read it back to them. The Ask: You provide the six-digit code.