A Beginner's Guide to Safely Buying a MacBook Pro 17-inch on OfferUp

Navigating OfferUp for Your MacBook Pro 17-inch: A Beginner's Safety Guide

Welcome to OfferUp! This guide is designed to help you safely purchase a MacBook Pro 17-inch. Given its value, this product can attract scammers, so understanding potential pitfalls is crucial. Follow these steps to ensure a secure transaction.

Common Scams to Watch Out For

• ✓ Google Voice Verification Code: Scammers may ask for a verification code sent to your phone to 'verify you're a real person.' This code is used to create a Google Voice number for them, not to verify you. Never share verification codes.
• ✓ Fake Payment App Screenshot: A scammer might send a convincing but fake screenshot of a payment confirmation. Always verify the funds directly in your bank account or payment app before handing over the MacBook.
• ✓ The 'Text Me' Phone Number Phish: Sellers asking you to move the conversation off-platform to text messages are often trying to scam you. They may want to lure you into a phishing scam or use your number for fraudulent purposes. Keep all communication within the OfferUp app.
• ✓ Empty Box Shipping Fraud: Be wary of listings that seem too good to be true, especially if they involve shipping. Scammers may send an empty box or a box with a much lighter, less valuable item, claiming it was shipped correctly. Always document the unboxing process if shipping is involved.
• ✓ Non-Existent Item Deposit: Some scammers might ask for a deposit on a MacBook Pro 17-inch that they don't actually possess, to secure the sale. Once the deposit is paid, they disappear. Never pay a deposit for an item you haven't seen or verified.
• ✓ Fake TruYou Identity Theft: While TruYou aims to build trust, some scammers may create fake profiles or exploit the system. Be cautious of sellers with very new or unverified profiles, even if they have a TruYou badge. Always check user reviews and transaction history.
• ✓ Overpayment via Cashier's Check: Scammers might send a fake cashier's check for more than the item's price, asking you to return the difference. The check will eventually bounce, leaving you responsible for the full amount and any funds you sent back. Never accept cashier's checks for payment.
• ✓ Robbery at Unsafe Meetup: High-value items like MacBooks can unfortunately attract criminals. Never agree to meet in isolated or unsafe locations. Always choose well-lit, public places like police station parking lots or busy commercial areas.

Verifying the Seller and Item

• ✓ Inspect the MacBook Pro 17-inch thoroughly in person if possible. Check for physical damage, ensure it powers on, and verify its specifications against the listing.
• ✓ Review the seller's profile. Look for established accounts with a history of positive reviews and successful transactions. Be wary of new accounts with little to no history.
• ✓ If meeting in person, arrange the exchange in a safe, public location. Consider bringing a friend.
• ✓ For transactions over $500, consider using Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for identity verification. This adds an extra layer of security by confirming the identity of both buyer and seller.

By staying informed and vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to scams on OfferUp. Always trust your instincts; if a deal seems too good to be true or a seller is making unusual requests, it's best to walk away.