Seller & Buyer Safety
- How can I verify a seller on eBay or Amazon Marketplace?
Check the seller's feedback score, history, and return policy. On eBay, look for a feedback rating above 98% and a member since date of at least a year; on Amazon, ensure the seller is 'Fulfilled by Amazon' or has mostly positive ratings over 95%. - What are red flags when buying from a stranger on Facebook Marketplace?
Red flags include refusing to meet in person, asking for payment before you see the item, using unusual payment methods like gift cards, and pressuring you to act fast. Also be wary if the seller's profile is new or has no friends or activity. - Should I use friends and family on PayPal to pay a seller I don't know?
No. Using 'friends and family' for a purchase from a stranger voids PayPal's buyer protection, so you can't get your money back if the item never arrives or isn't as described. Always use 'goods and services' for purchases. - How can I check if an online seller is legitimate before buying?
Research the seller's reputation on independent review sites, check for a physical address and phone number, and look at their return and privacy policies. Also, test their customer service by emailing or calling before you buy. - What should I do if a seller asks me to pay outside the platform?
Don't do it. Paying outside the platform removes buyer protections, making it hard to get a refund if something goes wrong. Report the seller to the platform. - Is it safe to buy from a seller with no reviews?
It can be safe, but it's riskier. No reviews means no track record, so you have no evidence the seller is reliable. Take extra precautions.