I have a question concerning a possible scam. I had posted a used item on Craigslist worth about $225 new and selling for about $60. I received an email from somone several states away wanting to buy the item and pay for the shipping. The shipping will be about $20. He wants me to invoice him via Paypal and he will pay me through Paypal and after I get the payment I am to ship the item out.
If I ship this in a method that gives me proof of receipt am I still at risk on this deal? The buyer so far seems straight up however if I were in his shoes I would not do what he is doing.....thus leading me to wonder if I am the stupid one overlooking a major red flag?
I sometimes wonder about this too - since the buyer ultimately has the power to cancel or say item is not as described etc. There are many ways scammers are finding loopholes to steal, so caution is good. Chances are your offer is legit, but don't get ripped off either.
How about suggest to them a C.O.D. package - with CASH ONLY terms?
This protects you for getting paid - and protects the buyer in case you send him a box of poo. LOL
One of the most common red flags is that the buyer wants to sent you the money via your PayPal email address. Normally as the seller, you send the buyer an email invoice or the purchase is processed through your web page or site. Also, if plan to be a seller, you should have either a Premier or Business Account. You will run into limitations trying to use a Personal Account.
Next common red flag, the buyer wants the item delivered to another country and recommends a specific shipping service for you to use
Another red flag, buyer offers to pay more than you're asking or is requesting shipment ASAP to an unconfirmed address or another state or country.
Beware when the seller wants you to send him the money for a purchase but you are asked to send the money as a "Gift". This means that the seller is trying to avoid paying the transaction fees and also makes it hard for you to prove you actually purchased an item.
You can protect yourself in several ways: Do not sell to non-US PayPal Accounts. Require a "Confirmed Address" meaning that the shipping and billing address must be the same. Opt to not accept eChecks. Block payments from Student account users under 18 years old.
These are all options you can enable from within your PayPal Account Profile.
