7 Warning Signs of a PlayStation 5 Pro Console Scam on Depop

Out-of-App Payment Requests: Scammers may ask you to complete the transaction outside of Depop, often via PayPal, Zelle, or other external payment methods. This bypasses Depop's buyer protection, leaving you with no recourse if the item is not as described or never arrives. Always keep all communication and payments within the Depop app.

Stock Photo or Misleading Listings: Be wary of listings that use only stock photos or generic images, especially for high-value items like the PS5 Pro. Some scammers create listings that are just photos of the console, or an empty box, with the intention of deceiving buyers who don't read the description carefully. Always scrutinize the images and ensure they are of the actual item being sold.

Untracked Shipping Scam: Sellers might offer cheaper, untracked shipping to cut costs. If the item is not delivered, or if the buyer claims it wasn't received, Depop will likely side with the buyer as there's no proof of delivery. This leaves sellers out of pocket and buyers without their console. Always opt for tracked shipping for expensive items.

Stolen or Fake Product Listings: Scammers may use stolen photos from other legitimate listings to advertise consoles they do not possess. In some cases, the product itself could be counterfeit, a refurbished unit misrepresented as new, or even a stolen console. Always check seller reviews and look for original, unique photos of the item.

Social Media Redirects / Asking for Personal Information: Be cautious if a seller tries to move the conversation to social media platforms (like Instagram or WhatsApp) or asks for your phone number. This is often a tactic to get you off the platform and into a less secure transaction, or to gather personal information for other fraudulent activities.

Chargeback After Rating: Some scammers might deliver a functional but perhaps slightly used or non-original item, hoping you'll rate them positively quickly. After receiving a positive review, they might then initiate a chargeback through their payment provider, claiming they never received the item or it was faulty, leaving you without the console and the money. Always inspect the item thoroughly before leaving a review.

Counterfeit Items: While less common for electronics compared to fashion, there's always a risk of receiving a counterfeit PS5 Pro. This could be a modified console or a complete fake designed to look like the real thing. If the price seems too good to be true, or if the seller's description is vague about authenticity, it's a major red flag.