-
Meet in Public Places: Whenever possible, arrange to meet in a public, well-lit location to exchange goods and money. This is safer than meeting in a private or secluded location. For added security, you might want to bring a friend along.
-
Use Secure Payment Methods: Avoid sending money through unsecure or untraceable methods. When possible, use secure, traceable payment methods and avoid transactions that involve wire transfers or gift cards.
-
Verify the Buyer/Seller: For higher-priced items, it may be worth doing a bit of research to verify the legitimacy of the buyer or seller. This could involve checking their profile on the website, their online presence elsewhere, or reviews and ratings if available.
-
Inspect Before Purchase: For buyers, if possible, inspect the item in person before purchasing. Make sure the item is what the seller claims it is and is in the condition described. For sellers, confirm that the payment has been received and cleared before handing over the item.