How to Avoid Xbox Series X2 Scams on Depop in 2026

Your Essential Guide to Avoiding Xbox Series X2 Scams on Depop

The allure of a new Xbox Series X2 can make buyers eager, but this excitement can be exploited by scammers. Understanding common fraudulent tactics on Depop is crucial for protecting yourself. This guide outlines prevalent scams and offers practical advice to ensure your transactions are secure.

Beware of Unrealistic Prices and Stock Photos

Scammers often lure victims with prices significantly lower than the market value for an Xbox Series X2. If a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is. Additionally, be wary of listings that exclusively use stock photos or images from the internet instead of actual pictures of the console. Depop's policy prohibits the use of stock photos, as they can be misleading and infringe on copyright [12]. Always request real-time photos or videos of the product from the seller.

Scams to Watch Out For

• ✓ **Out-of-App Payment Requests:** Scammers will try to persuade you to complete the transaction outside of Depop, often via direct message, email, or social media. This is a major red flag, as it bypasses Depop's buyer protection and significantly increases your risk of being defrauded [2, 4]. Always keep all communication and payments within the Depop platform.
• ✓ **Untracked Shipping Scam:** Sellers might opt for untracked shipping to save money, leaving you vulnerable. Without a tracking number, it's difficult to prove non-delivery, and scammers can exploit this to claim they never received the item, potentially receiving a refund while keeping the console [8, 15]. Always insist on tracked shipping for high-value items like an Xbox Series X2.
• ✓ **Social Media Redirect:** Be cautious if a seller asks you to move the conversation to social media platforms or external websites. They might provide fake links that mimic Depop or payment processors to steal your personal and financial information [2, 20].
• ✓ **Counterfeit Goods:** While less common for consoles than fashion items, it's still possible for scammers to list refurbished or even non-functional units as new. Always check seller reviews and ratings. If a seller has a history of listing counterfeit items or misleading descriptions, avoid them [13, 16].
• ✓ **Chargeback After Rating:** Some dishonest buyers may try to leave a negative review or initiate a chargeback after receiving and using the item, even if they rated it positively initially. This is a form of buyer fraud. Depop has policies against this, but vigilance is key [10, 14].
• ✓ **Stock Photo-Only Listings:** Listings that exclusively use generic stock photos without any actual images of the Xbox Series X2 are highly suspicious. Depop's terms of service state that all photos must be original [12]. Scammers use these to create fake listings for items they don't possess.

Ensuring a Secure Transaction with Safe Trade Services

For high-value purchases like an Xbox Series X2, we strongly recommend utilizing Safe Trade Services for enhanced security. Our Premium Plan offers robust identity verification for both buyers and sellers, adding an extra layer of trust and accountability to your P2P transactions. This can help mitigate risks associated with fraudulent sellers and ensure you're dealing with a verified individual.

• ✓ **Verify Seller Identity:** Use Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan to confirm the identity of the seller before completing the purchase.
• ✓ **Confirm Item Authenticity:** While Safe Trade Services focuses on identity verification, always cross-reference seller reviews and product details on Depop.
• ✓ **Secure Payment Process:** Ensure all payments are made through Depop's official payment system, even when using Safe Trade Services for verification.
• ✓ **Use Tracked Shipping:** Always opt for and confirm that tracked shipping is used for your Xbox Series X2.
• ✓ **Document Everything:** Keep records of all Depop messages, payment confirmations, and shipping details.

By combining the security features of Depop with the verification services of Safe Trade Services, you can significantly reduce your risk and enjoy a safer buying experience.