The internet is the ultimate marketplace for affordable, rare, or otherwise unattainable yet desirable goods. Tap or click here for five ways to get free shipping online.
Just like with any interaction with a stranger online, though, doing things without putting yourself in danger is a task all its own. The problem will only compound if seeing the other party in person is necessary.
Luckily, we’ve got a few tips to consider. Keep reading for safety tips when using buying apps like Craigslist and OfferUp.
1. Meet in public
Never invite a stranger into your home, even when doing business on a respectable platform like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. Places like the mall, coffee shops, public parks and other bustling meeting spots will minimize your odds of a negative (or even dangerous) encounter.
RELATED: Five common OfferUp scams to avoid
Our best advice will usually be to pay in cash, avoiding sharing any personal information whenever possible (although, in some cases, services like PayPal may offer your transaction an extra layer of buyer’s protection in the form of fraud assurance).
If you use a card, make it a credit card, not a debit card. Credit cards offer more protections that can help you dispute any fraudulent transactions if worse comes to…
