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Facebook Marketplace can be a great way to sell unwanted items or bag a bargain, whether you’re a seller or buyer. Unfortunately, Facebook is also a prime target for scammers. Recent reports have seen scammers using an array of tricks including advertising goods and services, demanding deposits, and upfront payments, for items that do not exist. Key Safety Measures: Meet in Public: Select busy, well-lit areas, preferably with CCTV.Safety in Numbers: Do not go alone; take someone with you or tell family/friends your location.Verify Profiles: Check the buyer/seller profile for longevity, mutual friends, and ratings.Protect Privacy: Keep all communication within Facebook Messenger to avoid phone/email scams.Buying Safely: Inspect Before Paying: Physically inspect items, especially high-value goods, before handing over money. If buying a phone, check its working.Safe Payments: Use cash or secure apps like PayPal "Goods and Services" for buyer protection.Red Flags: Avoid deals that seem too good to be true, or sellers who demand to move communication off Facebook.Avoid Shipping: Stick to local, in-person pickups to avoid fraudSelling Safely: Cash is Best: Cash is generally the safest payment method to avoid, scams, or fraudulent digital payments.Verify Payment: If using digital payments, ensure the money has cleared in your account before handing over the item.Home Pickups: If a buyer comes to your home, move large items to the garage or porch, and avoid being alone.Be Wary of "Couriers": Be cautious of buyers who say they are out of town and will send a "courier" or family member to pick up the item, which is a common scam tactic. Do not be put off using Facebook Marketplace the key, whether you’re buying or selling, is to learn how to spot the warning signs before you buy or sell. Report any suspicious activity to Facebook. | 
