Images via The Guardian
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Buying and selling clothes and sneakers online is a real "thing" now. There are dedicated forums, Facebook pages, Instagram accounts, and there's Depop. So when you're not working within the pretty secure realms of eBay, you've to know exactly how to protect yourself when you're using one of the less regulated options. So we thought we'd help, because we've got your back, bro. Scroll for our top tips to avoid being scammed online.
2.Ask for Tagged Photos
When buying online, there's always the risk that the seller has just taken a photo someone else has posted online of the item you're looking to buy. Ask the seller to send you a tagged photo. A piece of paper with their name and the date, their ID, their face, anything that can prove they have that item in their posession. This is online buying 101, and if they won't do it, it should set alarm bells ringing.
3.If in Doubt, Ask for a Second Opinion
Fakes exist, and it's a fact of life. Unfortunately, people will try and sell you those fakes. If you're unsure of the authenticity of the item, always ask for a second opinion. The forums, the Facebook groups, they're all full of members with a knowledge that you should really utilise, and they're more than willing to help. Don't be afraid to ask for a second opinion.
4.Always Check the Feedback and References
eBay has feedback for a reason. The forums and groups will have a system of references and probably even a trusted sellers list. Always check them, to make sure you're dealing with someone who can be trusted, especially if they're asking you to pay in an unsecure way. Don't be taken in, guys.
5.Always Use PayPal, and Always Use "Goods and Services"
PayPal is your best friend when it comes to buying and selling online. It's fast, easy, and secure if you're using it the right way. Always pay using goods and services, otherwise you are literally sending them your hard earned money as a gift. Pay the 4%, and secure your money. For an added level of security give an accurate description of the item you're intending to buy and its condition in the invoice, so they can't get away with sending you any old unwanted clothing.
6.When Trading with a Stranger, Always Use a Trusted Middle Man
Trading is super tricky, especially over a long distance. To avoid someone not actually sending you their item or from just sending you something random, use a trusted middle man, and pay the extra shipping costs. A trusted member of a forum or group will generally be happy to help you out with a middle man service, and generally, it will only cost you the extra shipping costs. It's worth it to keep your stuff safe.
7.Always Use Recorded Delivery
When selling, it's always best best to use recorded delivery, as a favourite method of scammers is to pay, receive the item and then claim their money back because there is no proof of delivery. Recorded delivery requires a signature and provides you and the buyer with a tracking number, so everyone is aware when things do or do not arrive, and it insures the package you're sending, so if it does get lost, everyone is covered. Perfect, right?
8.If It Looks Too Good to Be True, Walk Away
Deals are deals, and they do exist, but no one is going to sell you that high-resell-value jacket for less than retail, it just isn't going to happen. If the deal you're being offered sounds too good to be true, it probably is, and if the results of the reference and feedback checks are inconclusive, be sensible and walk away. Save your money for another day, when you can make sure you're going to be getting what you want.