7 Warning Signs You are Being Scammed by a Luxury Home Decor Seller on Folksy

Resell of Mass-Produced Goods: Be wary if a seller claims to offer 'luxury handcrafted' items that appear to be mass-produced or widely available from large retailers. Always research the seller's other listings and their origin story. Authentic luxury home decor often has unique characteristics or maker's marks.

Stolen Artisan Photography: Scammers may use high-quality images of genuine luxury decor stolen from other artists or manufacturers to deceive buyers. If an item looks too good to be true or the seller's other listings are inconsistent in style or quality, it could be a sign of stolen imagery. Always look for originality and a consistent seller profile.

Fake Handmade Certification: Some sellers might falsely claim their luxury home decor is 'certified handmade' or 'artisan-made' to command higher prices. If the seller cannot provide evidence of their crafting process or unique origin, be suspicious. Look for sellers who openly share their process or have a strong portfolio.

Off-Platform PayPal Invoicing: A seller insisting on moving the transaction off Folksy, often via direct PayPal invoicing, is a significant red flag. This bypasses Folksy's buyer protection, leaving you vulnerable if the item is not as described or never arrives. Stick to the platform's secure payment system.

Overpayment Check Fraud: Be extremely cautious if a buyer overpays for your item and asks you to send back the difference via check or wire transfer. This is a common scam where the initial payment will eventually bounce, leaving you liable for the funds you sent.

Fake Order Cancellation Phish: You might receive an email or message claiming an order has been canceled and asking you to click a link to verify details or get a refund. This is a phishing attempt to steal your login credentials or financial information. Always go directly to your Folksy account to manage orders.

The 'Influencer' Collab Trap: Scammers might pose as influencers or brand representatives offering a 'collaboration' or 'promotion' that requires you to pay upfront for supplies or a deposit. This is often a ploy to take your money for non-existent or low-quality goods.