Detect buyer fraud, fake payments, and scam messages on Facebook Marketplace
Common Examples
Facebook Marketplace has become a prime target for buyer and seller scams. Scammers use fake payment screenshots, overpayment tricks, and phishing links to defraud both buyers and sellers. Paste the message, check a suspicious link, or upload a screenshot.
Common scams include fake payment confirmations (especially Zelle or PayPal overpayments), requests to communicate off-platform, fake escrow services, and buyers or sellers who never deliver.
A scammer sends a fake payment for more than the asking price, then asks you to refund the difference. The original payment is fraudulent and will be reversed, leaving you out of both the item and the money.
Meet in a public place during daylight hours, preferably a police station parking lot (many offer safe exchange zones). Bring a friend, trust your instincts, and never carry large amounts of cash.
Click the three dots on the listing or message, select Report, and choose the appropriate scam category. You can also report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and file a chargeback if you paid by credit card.
Share this facebook marketplace scam checker page to help more people spot scams early, or donate to keep AskdwinAI free.