Tired of FB Scammers...

RP · #1 10-16-2022, 11:07 AM

I've experienced that I get more seemingly scam responses on Facebook Marketplace than on Craigslist. I smile inwardly when read the things that some of you do to ward off scammers, but decided to try something myself. In every ad I place on Facebook, I include the following:

I don't deal with scammers. Don't ask for my phone number and similarly don't tell me immediately that you want my Zelle information. If you can't meet in a public place to conduct the transaction, don't bother contacting me. Don't send a third party to make this transaction.

Obviously the jury is still out as to how well this will work...

KenL · #2 10-16-2022, 01:11 PM

It's not much better on Craigslist. I always end my ad with "If this ad is still here, it is still available."

And then I ignore the replies asking "Is the item still available?" They all seem to hit in the first 30 minutes.

rllink · #3 10-16-2022, 02:49 PM

I hope that works for you. I always put in mine, local pickup and no trades. I'm always surprised how many people think that doesn't mean them.

tinnitus · #4 10-16-2022, 03:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rllink

I hope that works for you. I always put in mine, local pickup and no trades. I'm always surprised how many people think that doesn't mean them.

Not to drift off topic - or maybe this is right on target.

I have acquired countless guitars, amps and kayaks through trades instead of outright purchases. My favorite acoustic guitar came to me when somebody offered it up instead of cash for an amp I was selling. In fact, I joined the guy's cover band and we played a dozen or so bar gigs over the next 2-3 years. But that's another story.

This one grates on me, though, because I can't tell if it's a scammer or just a simpleton (so I don't bother to ask):

"Are you open to trades? What do you want?"

Obviously, it's the former when I get that response to craigslist ads looking for a bandmate or acoustic duo partner.

RP · #5 10-16-2022, 04:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rllink

I hope that works for you. I always put in mine, local pickup and no trades. I'm always surprised how many people think that doesn't mean them.

Well, it's been several hours since I posted on FB, and I haven't had a single scammer request for my phone number or attempt to pay by Zelle. I'm not quite ready to run naked through the streets of C'ville (or maybe I'm no longer able) to celebrate, but so far, so good...