How can I protect myself from being scammed?

Knowledge and caution — that's what helps you stay safe online. Here are a few general tips that can help you protect yourself from unscrupulous sellers:

1. Check Feedback.

It helps confirm that the person is reliable. People who have dealt with a seller leave reviews to keep others informed of how the deal went. Take a minute to check reviews before making a deal. Whatever your experience, share it — other buyers will appreciate it. Remember to view the "Feedback" section whenever you have dealt with — or plan to deal with — a seller or service provider.

2. Avoid sending prepayments.

Meet sellers face-to-face in a public place, or ask to pay on delivery. Check the item's quality and make sure it lives up to your expectations before you make payment.

3. Make sure the packed item is the one you inspected.

Inspect the item and pay only when you have it in your possession. Don't give a scammer the opportunity to swap it.

4. Never share financial information that could be misused.

Be attentive and avoid scams and frauds such as fake payment services, fee requests, or requests to use money transfer services.

5. Use common sense.

Avoid anything that seems too good to be true, such as unrealistically low prices or promises of quick money.

To learn more about safety tips, go here.