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If you don't know the person that you're buying from, avoid giving them important details, such as your bank account information, address, social security number, or passwords. If the buyer or seller asks for any information that you don't feel comfortable giving out, avoid working with them. If you ever feel uncomfortable by what information a buyer or seller asks from you, avoid working with them. Never put your information in a private message to a buyer or seller on sites like Etsy, Craigslist, Facebook, or eBay. Credit cards usually have zero-liability policies, which means you won't have to pay for transactions that you didn't authorize if someone steals your information. Since debit cards don't have the same liability protection, delete any debit information you have saved on the marketplace and replace them with the credit card you use. Sign up for fraud alerts through your credit card company so you can get notified if any charges don't seem correct. Pay off the credit card as soon as you make a purchase so you aren't charged additional interest. You may also use PayPal to make purchases on sites like eBay or Etsy. If you're buying, only bring the amount you agreed upon paying so the other person doesn't try to drive up the price. When you're selling, tell the other person you want cash and be firm on your asking amount. Keep a few smaller bills on you in case you need to make change. This works best for buying or selling items through Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. Only exchange money after you have given or received the product. That way, the other person can't steal from you. Create an account using a secure payment app, such as PayPal, Venmo, or Cash App. Connect your bank account or debit card to the app so you're able to access your funds. Make sure the transaction goes through completely before exchanging the product. Set up the funds so they deposit into your bank or keep them on the app for future purchases. Don't give out your login information since other people could access your funds. Many scammers use money transfer services to request funds, and they may try to steal information or take your money without sending the product. They may also use fake checks or not have enough funds, which can get you in trouble with your bank when you try to cash them. If the person requests you pay or accept money using either of these methods, avoid working with them or try to recommend a more secure method. Many scammers will request these forms of payment through Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace Avoid using wifi networks that aren't password-protected since anyone else can access them and potentially find your information. Always log into a wifi network with a password or use the data services on your phone if you need to make a purchase. You don't have to worry about your information if you're plugged directly into your router or modem since it's already protected by a firewall.
Don't give out personal information to untrustworthy buyers or sellers. Use a credit card rather than a debit card when you're buying. Opt to use cash when buying or selling in person. Use a person-to-person payment app if you don't have cash. Avoid using money transfers or checks whether you're buying or selling. Make purchases over secure Internet connections.