The Ultimate Checklist for Safely Buying a MacBook Pro 17-inch on OfferUp

Your Ultimate OfferUp MacBook Pro 17-inch Buying Checklist

Purchasing a high-value item like a MacBook Pro 17-inch on OfferUp requires vigilance. This checklist will guide you through the essential steps to ensure a safe and secure transaction, minimizing the risk of encountering common scams.

Seller Verification and Listing Scrutiny

• ✓ Thoroughly review the seller's profile for ratings, reviews, and transaction history. Look for consistent positive feedback.
• ✓ Scrutinize the listing for clear, original photos of the MacBook Pro 17-inch. Be wary of stock photos or images from other websites.
• ✓ Check for multiple, identical listings from the same seller, which can indicate a fraudulent operation.
• ✓ If the price seems too good to be true for a MacBook Pro 17-inch, it likely is. High-value electronics are prime targets for scams.
• ✓ Be cautious of sellers who are overly eager to sell quickly or use emotional stories to create urgency.

Communication and Payment Safeguards

• ✓ Keep all communication within the OfferUp app to maintain a record and leverage platform protections. Avoid moving to text or email.
• ✓ Never share verification codes sent to your phone. This is a common tactic for Google Voice scams.
• ✓ Insist on using OfferUp's secure payment system for shipped items. Avoid third-party payment apps or direct transfers for shipped goods.
• ✓ For in-person transactions, arrange to meet in a well-lit, public place, such as a police station parking lot or a bank.
• ✓ If meeting in person, inspect the MacBook Pro thoroughly before completing the transaction. Power it on, check specs, and ensure it matches the description.

Understanding and Avoiding Common Scams

• ✓ **Google Voice Verification Code Scam:** Sellers may ask you to send them a code sent to your phone, claiming it's for verification. This allows them to take over your Google Voice number.
• ✓ **Fake Payment App Screenshot:** Sellers might send a fake screenshot of a payment confirmation from an app like PayPal or Venmo. Always verify payments directly within the app.
• ✓ **Shipping Label Outside App:** Scammers may try to arrange shipping outside of OfferUp, avoiding platform protections. Always use OfferUp's integrated shipping.
• ✓ **The 'Text Me' Phone Number Phish:** Similar to the verification code scam, this involves moving communication off-platform to steal personal information.
• ✓ **Empty Box Shipping Fraud:** You might receive an empty box or a box with unrelated items instead of the MacBook Pro. This is often associated with listings that seem too good to be true.
• ✓ **Non-Existent Item Deposit:** Scammers may ask for a deposit on a MacBook Pro that they don't actually possess, disappearing after receiving the payment.
• ✓ **Robbery at Unsafe Meetup:** Meeting in a secluded or unsafe location increases the risk of physical harm or theft. Always choose safe, public places.

Leveraging Safe Trade Services

For high-value items like a MacBook Pro 17-inch, consider using Safe Trade Services for an added layer of security. Their **Premium Plan** offers robust identity verification, which is highly recommended for transactions over $500 to protect both buyers and sellers in P2P exchanges.

Final Check Before You Buy

• ✓ Confirm the serial number of the MacBook Pro matches the packaging and documentation, if available.
• ✓ Ensure the seller is willing to use OfferUp's recommended shipping or meet in a secure, public location for in-person exchanges.
• ✓ Trust your instincts. If something feels off about the listing or the seller, it's best to walk away.