Do you use Craigslist Charleston on a regular basis? If so, you are likely aware of the potential scams that are “out there” trying to rob you of your hard-earned money. However, for the occasional user, getting sucked into these often-elaborate scams isn’t only possible, it’s (unfortunately) highly likely. The good news is, there are some tips that can help you avoid becoming a victim of these all-too-common money scams. The first step is to know what they are. Here you can learn about five of the most common money scams on Craigslist Charleston, so you can avoid being a victim.
1. Cancelled or Fake Tickets
One of the most common scams seen on Craigslist today are those involving tickets. Even though scalpers alone can cost you quite a bit of money by purchasing tickets for a low price and then turning around and selling them at a huge markup – however, if you purchase cancelled or fake tickets – you lose completely. There are some scammers who regularly use Craigslist to sell fake tickets they have actually made themselves. Thanks to (or no-thanks to) innovative technology, these tickets look authentic. They are typically for sports games, concerts or other large events. There are some scammers who have even mastered the art of creating watermarks and holograms on the tickets for events and concerts. This is true even for airline tickets. Scammers using Craigslist then list the tickets that are already cancelled or fake, making you pay a large amount, and all you get is disappointment and an empty wallet.
2. The Use of a Non-Local Ad
If you come across an ad where the person isn’t located in Charleston (or nearby), then it is usually not a very good idea to pursue what’s being sold. Why, you may wonder? Because individuals posting non-local ads usually won’t be able to meet up with you, which means you have to send money online – this is something scammers use to their advantage.
If you come across something being sold that isn’t local, then make sure to stop and really think about it. There’s a good chance it’s a scam.
3. Being Overpaid
Are you selling something on Craigslist? If so, you can be the victim of a money scam, as well. If your buyer sends you a check, cashier’s check or money order, that is more than the agreed-on price – a good rule of thumb is not to deposit it. In some cases, they will make up an excuse – such as they sent the wrong amount, and can you refund the difference. Unfortunately, the check is fake, but when the bank cashes it and later discovers this – you are on the hook for the money, while the scammer has all your cash.
4. Job Offers
With many people searching for employment, many are desperate to find work. As a result, scammers are trying to take advantage of this desperation. With this scam, you will find a job offer that sounds great – benefits, salary – the whole nine yards. However, when you apply, that’s when things get sketchy. You may be directed to a fake credit report or background check site that steals your personal information or be asked to pay a fee to receive more information. You should never have to pay to work. It’s best to research any company you are considering through the BBB to ensure it is legitimate. This can help you avoid being the victim of this scam.
5. The Hope of Free Stuff
Do you ever come across ads in the “free section” that advertise some type of mass home clearance? The homeowner or renter is supposedly moving out and needs to sell everything. In most cases, this is just a scammer trying to set you up to be the victim of a burglary. There are several news reports of homeowners returning home to find out that their home is stripped bare by many different people. The scammer is one of these individuals, taking all the bigger items and “blending” in with everyone else. Don’t be a part of this trap. As you can see, there are several ways that scammers are using Craigslist to their advantage. When you are aware of the methods, you can take steps to ensure you don’t become a victim.
