Yes, there are things you should know.
Do your research. Knowing who you are buying from my seem like an easy task, but scammers can be very sneaky at times.
They are always looking for the next mark. Don't become a statistic.
How to avoid "The Scam?"
Here are five steps to help avoid being scammed.
1- Research and ask questions.
There is a vast audience to engage. Check facebook groups, ask for references, and check profiles. Listen to the feedback and listen to your gut feeling. The idea that it won't happen to you can end up costing you your hard earned money.
2- Patience.
Yes, be patient because a scammers number one tactic is to get a deal going and get your money quick. Patience is key and when the scammer becomes impatient they can give you telltale signs. Saying, "I have another buyer waiting." Or, "You need to hurry to not lose on this deal." Yet, they continue to engage you. This is a red flag.
3- Never pay without the ability to dispute.
Another tactic scammers use is requesting to send payment to a girlfriend/boyfriend because they have account issues. DO NOT DO THIS!! Payments should never be sent Paypal friends & family, Venmo, Cashapp, or Western Union. This 100% guarantees you will not be able to dispute the transaction to get your money back. It is a red flag if the seller is insistent on this type of payment.
4- Watch for Communication flags.
This may seem like a simple thing but the red flags are present from the start. If you get a random message thats starts, "Hello, my friend..." Or "Okay my friend..." This is the beginning of a questionable transaction. One, they are not your friend. Two, the messages that follow are a setup to reel in the deal. Other phrases like, "Do not worry, I am making a good deal just for you." Or, "Do not worry I am not going to scam you." May seem like easy things to raise flags but I wouldn't mention them if they weren't overlooked. The key to watch for is broken English and the attempt to use proper English such as, "Do not" versus, "Don't."
5- Overseas transactions.
Everyone wants the good deal but unless you have proper paperwork these types of deal are called "brown boxing." They can cost you more than you think and only brings more scrutiny on a hobby that does not need anymore scrutiny. Many times overseas transactions make people easy prey for scammers. Again, sending money overseas is usually a transaction that cannot be disputed and items sent without proper paperwork can be seized and destroyed. This also opens you up for a visit from a Postal Inspector or USDA Agent. Neither of which will end well.
We do not condone brown boxing.
Remember: If, someone is sending you messages outside of regular posts, chances are they are scamming you. "If, it's too good to be true, it is too good to be true."
I hope this helps you avoid becoming a statistic.
Ben@Isopod.com