Pause. Think. Don’t Send That Money.

Pause. Think. Don’t Send That Money.

Marketplace Scams Are Real—Here’s How to Protect Yourself

Online marketplaces like Facebook, Craigslist, and OfferUp can be great for finding deals or making extra cash, but they’re also prime targets for scammers. If you're buying or selling online, knowing what to look out for is essential.

Common Scams to Watch For:

 The “Seller” Scam

You find the perfect item and message the seller. They reply:

“Send a deposit to hold it. You can use Cash App, Zelle, Venmo—whatever works.”

You send the money... and then they disappear. The item never existed, and your money is gone.

The “Buyer” Scam

You’re selling something and get an eager buyer. They send a check, but it’s more than the agreed price. Then they say:

“Can you send the extra to my shipper?”

You do. But the check bounces, and you’re out of the money.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Stick to local transactions – Only buy and sell with people in your area.
• Meet in public – Police station parking lots are a safe option.
• Use cash – Avoid sending money through apps when dealing with strangers.
• Never pay in advance – Don’t send money just to “hold” an item.

Why It Matters:

Payments like Zelle, Venmo, and Cash App are convenient but also hard to trace or recover if something goes wrong. Once that money leaves your account, it’s likely gone for good.

At Beacon Federal Credit Union, we’re here to help you bank smarter and stay protected. If a situation feels suspicious, pause, ask questions, or give us a call.

You work hard for your money, so let’s keep it safe. As always, We're Looking Out For You!