How to Avoid Scams When Buying & Selling Online

Updated 2026-06-30

The vast majority of marketplace deals are honest, but a few simple habits keep you safe from the ones that are not. Here is how to buy and sell with confidence on Sabalist.

Know the common red flags

Be cautious of anyone who refuses to meet in person, pressures you to act immediately, asks you to pay before you have seen the item, or offers a deal that seems too good to be true. Scammers rely on urgency — slow down.

Meet in a safe place

Always meet in a busy, public location during daylight — a mall, a bank lobby, or a well-known landmark. Tell someone where you are going, and bring a friend for valuable items like phones, laptops, or vehicles.

Pay and get paid safely

Inspect the item fully before any money changes hands. Never send money in advance to someone you have not met, and be wary of requests to pay by gift cards, crypto, or wire to a stranger. Cash on handover is simplest; for large amounts, meet at a bank.

Extra checks for big purchases

For cars, verify the registration and ownership documents and confirm the chassis number matches. For property, never pay a deposit before viewing in person and confirming the landlord or agent is genuine.

For sellers

Be wary of "buyers" who overpay and ask for a refund of the difference, or who want to use a courier you have never heard of. Confirm payment has actually cleared into your account before you hand over the item.

Report anything suspicious

If a listing or message feels wrong, stop the conversation and report it. Trusting your instincts is the best protection you have.