How to Verify a Seller Before Paying
A few minutes of due diligence before you send money can save you from losing it entirely. Here are practical steps anyone can follow before transacting with an unknown party online.
Search Their Phone Number or Username
Before sending money, search the seller's phone number, name, or username on ScamAlertDB. If they have been reported by previous victims, you'll find it here. Also try a general web search with the phone number plus the word "scam" or "fraud."
Reverse Image Search Their Photos
Right-click any photos they've sent or posted and search for them using Google Images or TinEye. If the photos appear on stock image sites, other sellers' listings, or unrelated websites, the identity may be fabricated. This is especially common in romance scams and fake item listings.
Check Their Account Age and Activity
On Facebook, check when the account was created and how many friends they have. On Instagram, look at when the account was created and whether the follower count seems genuine. A new account with no history, few followers, and polished product photos should raise questions.
Ask for a Live Video Call
For higher-value items, request a live video call showing the item in real time. A legitimate seller of a real item will generally be willing to do this. A scammer using stolen photos will not.
Meet in Person When Possible
For local transactions, always meet in a public place during daylight hours. Many police stations offer their parking lots as designated safe meeting spots for online purchases. Never agree to pay before inspecting the item in person.
Use Payment Methods With Buyer Protection
Credit cards and PayPal Goods & Services offer dispute and chargeback mechanisms. Zelle, Venmo (Friends & Family), Cash App, and bank transfers generally do not. If a seller insists on a payment method that offers no buyer protection, treat that as a significant red flag.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off — pressure to decide quickly, reluctance to answer direct questions, prices that seem too good — walk away. A good deal is not worth the risk of losing real money to a scammer.