How to avoid scams in classified ads

Most classified deals go smoothly, but knowing scammers' tricks protects you from the minority who try to exploit you. The most important rule: slow down, and don't let urgency lead you.

The most common payment tricks

• Convincing you the money is 'on its way' via a screenshot or SMS — never hand over before it actually reaches your account.
• Asking for a 'shipping' or 'insurance' fee to receive a payment — always a scam.
• Fake payment links asking for your bank details or verification code (OTP).

Never share these

Never give a verification code (OTP) to anyone, for any reason, and never share your bank details or passwords. Anyone requesting them under the pretext of 'payment confirmation' or 'verification' is a scammer.

Signs of a suspicious ad

A price far below market with no reason, pressure to respond and pay fast, insistence on moving off-app immediately, and refusal to view or meet in a public place. All warrant stopping.

Deal safely

Keep the conversation in the app, meet in a public place, and inspect before paying. If anything feels off, stop and report the ad — reporting protects others too.