7 Warning Signs You are Being Scammed on OfferUp When Buying an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo

7 Warning Signs of OfferUp Scams for Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo is a highly sought-after luxury timepiece, making it a prime target for scammers on platforms like OfferUp. Be vigilant and aware of the following warning signs to protect yourself from fraudulent sellers.

1. The 'Text Me' or Google Voice Verification Scam

A scammer may ask you to provide a verification code sent to your phone, claiming it's for security or to confirm you're a real buyer. This is often a tactic to gain control of your phone number for a Google Voice account, allowing them to impersonate you or scam others. OfferUp will never ask for such verification codes outside of its app.

2. Fake Payment App Screenshot

Be wary of sellers who provide screenshots as proof of payment. Scammers can easily create fake payment confirmations that mimic genuine transaction screens. Always verify that funds have actually cleared into your account before considering a transaction complete.

3. Shipping Label Outside the App / Shipping Fee Invoices

Scammers might try to handle shipping arrangements or payments outside of OfferUp's system. This can involve sending you an invoice for shipping fees or offering to cover shipping themselves, only to send a fraudulent invoice later. It's crucial to keep all transactions and shipping arrangements within the OfferUp platform to benefit from its protections.

4. The 'Text Me' Phone Number Phish

If a seller insists on communicating via text message or asks for your phone number to "verify" details, be cautious. This is a common phishing tactic to gather personal information or lure you to a fake website. Keep all communication within OfferUp's secure messaging system.

5. Empty Box Shipping Fraud

This scam involves a seller shipping an empty box or a box with a non-existent item, claiming it's the product. They may manipulate tracking information or provide a tampered shipping label. Always ensure the seller is reputable and consider using OfferUp's secure payment options for high-value items.

6. Non-Existent Item Deposit

Be suspicious of sellers requesting a deposit for an item that is not yet available or for which they cannot provide immediate proof of possession. High-value items like luxury watches should be available for immediate inspection or verified shipping.

7. Robbery at Unsafe Meetup

While OfferUp promotes local meetups, choosing an unsafe or isolated location for a high-value transaction like an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo significantly increases your risk of robbery. Always opt for well-lit, public places with surveillance, and consider bringing a friend.

• ✓ Always verify the seller's ratings and reviews on OfferUp.
• ✓ Keep all communication and transactions within the OfferUp app.
• ✓ Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
• ✓ Never share personal verification codes or click on suspicious links.
• ✓ For high-value items, prioritize in-person transactions in safe, public locations or use Secure Trade Services' Premium Plan for enhanced verification.