Is Depop a Scam for Tesla Model 5 Performance? A 2026 Safety Guide
Navigating the Depop marketplace for a Tesla Model 5 Performance requires vigilance. This guide outlines common scams to watch out for in 2026 and provides essential safety tips.
Depop Safety Guide: Tesla Model 5 Performance Edition
While Depop is a popular platform for various goods, high-value items like a Tesla Model 5 Performance demand extra caution. Scammers often exploit trust and use sophisticated tactics to defraud unsuspecting buyers. This guide will help you identify and avoid prevalent scams on Depop in 2026.
Common Scams to Watch For
Out-of-App Payment Request: Scammers will urge you to communicate and pay outside of Depop, often via bank transfers, Zelle, or other unsecure methods. This bypasses Depop's buyer protection, leaving you with no recourse if the item is not as described or never arrives. They might offer a seemingly better deal to entice you off-platform [1, 3, 5, 6, 8].
Untracked Shipping Scam / Non-Delivery Fraud: The seller may claim to have shipped the Tesla Model 5 Performance but provides no tracking information or uses a fake tracking number. After you've paid, they disappear, and you never receive the vehicle [1, 6].
Stolen Influencer Photos / Fake Listings: Scammers often use high-quality images, sometimes stolen from reputable sources or other listings, to create fraudulent listings for vehicles they do not possess. They might offer the Tesla Model 5 Performance at an unrealistically low price to attract buyers. Always verify the seller's history and look for genuine, unique photos or videos of the actual vehicle [1, 3, 6, 14, 15].
Chargeback after Rating Scam: A buyer might receive the vehicle, then falsely claim it arrived damaged or was never received, initiating a chargeback. Even after a positive rating, they can still attempt this, leaving you without the payment and potentially without the vehicle if you've already handed it over [2].
Fake Depop Support Email / Phishing Scams: You might receive an email that looks like it's from Depop, claiming an issue with your payment or account, and prompting you to click a link to verify details. These links lead to fake websites designed to steal your login credentials or financial information [1, 3, 6].
Protecting Your Purchase
- ✓ Always conduct all communication and transactions within the Depop app. This ensures that Depop's protection policies apply.
- ✓ Verify the seller's profile thoroughly. Look for established accounts with a history of positive reviews and completed sales. Be wary of new accounts with no reviews or suspiciously low prices.
- ✓ Be skeptical of any offer that seems too good to be true. High-value items like a Tesla Model 5 Performance are rarely sold at deep discounts.
- ✓ Request a video call to see the Tesla Model 5 Performance live and ask the seller specific questions about its condition, features, and history.
- ✓ For significant transactions like a Tesla Model 5 Performance, consider using Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for enhanced ID verification and secure transaction management. This adds an extra layer of security beyond Depop's standard protections.
By staying informed and vigilant, you can significantly reduce your risk when buying high-value items on Depop. Always prioritize security and trust your instincts.
Trading with a stranger?
Don't risk your money. Use our verification service to ensure they are who they say they are.
Start Verification Now