Is this buyer legit?
Paste what the buyer sent you. We look for the scripts fake buyers use on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp and similar apps.
Common fake buyer scams
- 1Verification code scamThe buyer asks you to “prove you’re real” by reading back a code sent to your phone. The code sets up a Google Voice number or unlocks an account in your name.
- 2Fake payment emailThey ask for your email, then send a fake Zelle, Venmo or PayPal notice saying the money is on hold until you pay something.
- 3OverpaymentThey “accidentally” send too much by check or app and ask you to refund the difference. The original payment bounces or never existed.
- 4Courier or mover pickupThey’re away or buying a gift, so a mover or shipping agent will collect the item, usually after a fake payment.
Rules that stop almost every seller scam
- Only trust money you can see in your balance after opening the app or bank yourself.
- Never send money, gift cards or codes to a buyer, for any reason.
- Never share a verification code, even to “prove you’re real.”
- Don’t ship or hand over the item until the payment has fully cleared.
- Keep the conversation inside the marketplace app.
- For local sales, meet in public and prefer cash.
Questions
Is it a red flag if a buyer wants my phone number or email?
Often. Your email is used to send fake payment notices and your number for code scams. Keep the chat in the marketplace app.
A buyer wants to send someone to pick up the item. Is that a scam?
Not always, but a pickup by a mover, courier or relative combined with an app or check payment is a common scam pattern. Only release the item once the money is in your balance, or take cash in person.
What’s the safest way to sell locally?
Meet in a public place, take cash or a payment you can see land in your balance, and never share codes or send money to a buyer.
Is what I paste sent anywhere?
No. This checker runs entirely in your browser.
Also try the fake payment email checker, or see all seller tools.