The Most Common Scams for PlayStation 5 Pro Consoles on Depop

Common Scams for PlayStation 5 Pro Consoles on Depop

The high demand and value of the PlayStation 5 Pro Console make it a prime target for scammers on platforms like Depop. Understanding these common fraudulent practices is the first step in protecting yourself.

Key Scams to Watch Out For

• ✓ **Out-of-App Payment Request:** Scammers may pressure you to complete the transaction outside of Depop, often via direct bank transfer or other P2P payment apps. This bypasses Depop's buyer/seller protection, leaving you with no recourse if something goes wrong. They might claim to save on fees or offer a discount, but it's a clear red flag.
• ✓ **Fake Depop Support Email:** Be wary of emails that mimic Depop's official communications. Scammers send fake emails claiming there's a payment issue or that the transaction needs to be confirmed externally. Always verify the sender's email address (official Depop emails end in '@depop.com') and check for poor grammar or spelling. If an email asks you to pay outside the app or demands personal information, it's a scam.
• ✓ **Untracked Shipping Scam:** Some sellers might claim to have shipped the item but provide no tracking information. This makes it impossible to verify delivery and can lead to disputes where the seller claims they shipped it, but you never receive it. Always ensure a tracking number is provided and verified through Depop.
• ✓ **Social Media Redirect:** Be cautious if a seller asks you to move the conversation or transaction to social media platforms like Instagram or WhatsApp. This is often a tactic to lure you off-platform, making it easier to scam you without Depop's oversight.
• ✓ **Stock Photo-Only Listing:** Listings that use only generic stock photos or images directly from the manufacturer's website, without any actual photos of the specific console being sold, are highly suspicious. This can indicate a fake listing or a seller who doesn't possess the item. Always insist on seeing photos of the actual product.
• ✓ **Chargeback after Rating:** A scammer might receive the item, falsely claim it was not as described, and initiate a chargeback with their bank or credit card company after leaving a positive review. This can result in the seller losing both the item and the payment.
• ✓ **The 'Review for Discount' Bait:** Some sellers might offer a discount on a future purchase or a partial refund in exchange for a positive review before you've fully received and inspected the item. This is a tactic to manipulate your feedback and avoid legitimate complaints.
• ✓ **Stolen Influencer Photos:** Scammers often use high-quality images taken by influencers or reputable sellers to create fraudulent listings. If a deal seems too good to be true, or the seller's profile lacks genuine photos and reviews, be suspicious.
• ✓ **Counterfeit Hypebeast Gear:** While less common for consoles, this scam involves selling fake or refurbished items as genuine. For a high-value item like a PS5 Pro, always be vigilant about authenticity.

How to Protect Yourself

When purchasing a high-value item like a PlayStation 5 Pro Console, it is crucial to verify the seller's legitimacy and ensure secure transaction practices. Utilize Depop's built-in safety features, such as seller ratings and reviews. For added security, especially for transactions over $500, consider using Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for identity verification. For lower-value items, the Basic Plan can still provide an extra layer of assurance.

• ✓ Always check seller reviews and ratings. Look for consistent positive feedback and active engagement.
• ✓ Scrutinize listing photos. Request additional, unique photos of the console if needed, especially close-ups of serial numbers and condition.
• ✓ Be wary of prices significantly lower than the market value.
• ✓ If a seller pressures you to move off-platform for payment or communication, consider it a major red flag.
• ✓ Understand Depop's Buyer Protection policy and adhere to its guidelines.