In the past, I have shared email examples I have received from scammers phishing for personal information. If you do not understand what phishing is, here is the definition from Wikipedia:
Phishing is a way of attempting to acquire sensitive information such as usernames, passwords and credit card details by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication. Communications purporting to be from popular social web sites, auction sites, online payment processors or IT administrators are commonly used to lure the unsuspecting public. Phishing is typically carried out by e-mail spoofing or instant messaging,and it often directs users to enter details at a fake website whose look and feel are almost identical to the legitimate one.
Here are some important safety tips if you are thinking about selling merchandise on Craigslist.
- Set-up an anonymous email address that does not include your personal information. Use this account strictly to deal with prospective buyers.
- Never include your home address or any personal information inside your advertisement.
- Never click on links included in emails from prospective buyers.
- Do not agree to let someone come to your home when you are alone. Always have another adult with you.
- Unless you are selling a piece of furniture that cannot be easily moved outside, never allow a potential buyer inside your home. Meet the potential buyer on your front porch or in the driveway.
- If you’re not comfortable having the potential buyer stop by your home and/or sharing your address, choose a public place to meet that is well populated.
- Only accept cash.
- Meet during daytime hours when it is light outside.
- If someone asks you to call them regarding an item you are selling, consider using *67 to block your number from their caller id. To learn how to do that, click here.
- Familiarize yourself with typical Craigslist scams so you do not fall for them.
If you have any other suggestions or tips, please share! Always use common sense when it comes to Craigslist, if something seems off then do not respond. Trust your instincts! No sale is worth jeopardizing your safety!