Facebook Marketplace has over 1 billion monthly users, making it one of the largest online shopping platforms in the world. Unfortunately, that massive user base also attracts scammers. The FTC received over 90,000 reports of social media shopping fraud in 2024, with Facebook being the most commonly cited platform.
The Most Common Facebook Marketplace Scams
Fake Listings
Scammers post attractive items at below-market prices using stolen photos. They collect payment and disappear. Common fake listings include electronics, vehicles, rental properties, and designer goods.
Overpayment Scams
A buyer sends a check or payment for more than the asking price, then asks the seller to refund the difference. The original payment bounces, and the seller loses the refunded money.
Fake Payment Screenshots
Scammers send doctored screenshots showing a payment was made, then pressure the seller to ship the item before the payment actually clears.
Rental Scams
Fraudsters list properties they do not own, often at below-market rates. They collect deposits and first month's rent from multiple victims before disappearing.
Counterfeit Goods
Items listed as brand-name products (Nike, Apple, Louis Vuitton) that turn out to be cheap counterfeits.
Broken or Misrepresented Items
Sellers list items that are damaged, stolen, or significantly different from the photos and description.
10 Safety Tips for Facebook Marketplace
For Buyers
- Meet in a public place. Police stations often have designated safe exchange zones with cameras.
- Inspect items in person before paying. Never send money sight unseen.
- Use Facebook Pay or cash. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
- Check the seller's profile. New accounts with no friends, no posts, or no history are red flags.
- Research the price. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
For Sellers
- Never ship before payment clears. Wait for the money to actually appear in your account.
- Do not accept overpayments. This is always a scam.
- Bring a friend to meetups. There is safety in numbers.
- Use the platform's messaging. Keep conversations on Facebook where there is a record.
- Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, walk away from the deal.
How to Report a Facebook Marketplace Scam
Report the listing or user directly through Facebook. File a complaint with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. If you lost money, file a police report and contact your bank. Use our Scam Checker to analyze suspicious listings or messages.