The 6 Most Common Frauds When Buying Off-White x Nike Dunks on Grailed

Navigating the Resale Market for Off-White x Nike Dunks on Grailed Safely

The Off-White x Nike Dunk is a highly coveted sneaker, making it a prime target for counterfeiters and scammers on platforms like Grailed. While Grailed has measures in place to ensure authenticity and protect users, it's crucial to be aware of the common fraudulent tactics employed by bad actors. This guide outlines the most prevalent scams to watch out for in 2026 to help you make informed purchasing decisions.

High-Tier Replica Bait

Scammers often list extremely convincing high-tier replicas, making them difficult to distinguish from authentic pairs, especially for the untrained eye. These fakes can mimic details like stitching, text placement, and material quality with remarkable accuracy. Researching known differences between genuine and counterfeit Off-White x Nike Dunks, such as the waviness or thickness of medial text, the size of the rear 'NIKE' branding, and the quality of the 'SHOELACES' print, is vital.. Always compare listing photos with reputable authentication guides.

Stolen Archive Photos

Sellers may use high-quality photos of authentic pairs (often sourced from official product images or other legitimate listings) to misrepresent the condition or authenticity of the item they are actually selling. This 'bait-and-switch' tactic relies on the buyer's assumption that the photos accurately depict the item being shipped. Always scrutinize the photos provided in the listing and look for any inconsistencies or signs that they may have been taken from elsewhere. Requesting additional, specific photos from the seller can help verify they possess the actual item.

Vague 'Used' Condition Fraud

Sellers might describe a used pair of Off-White x Nike Dunks with vague terms like 'good condition' or 'lightly used' while deliberately omitting significant flaws such as scuffs, tears, discoloration, or damage to the sole or insoles. The definition of 'condition' can be subjective, and scammers exploit this ambiguity. Always ask for detailed descriptions of any wear and tear, and if possible, request close-up photos of critical areas of the shoe.

Off-Platform PayPal Invoice

A common tactic is for a seller to ask for the transaction to be moved off-platform, often requesting payment via a PayPal invoice. While PayPal offers some protection, conducting transactions outside of Grailed's integrated system removes the platform's oversight and buyer/seller protection policies. This significantly increases the risk of being scammed, as Grailed cannot intervene in disputes arising from off-platform payments.

Chargeback After Delivery

This scam involves a buyer receiving the Off-White x Nike Dunks and then falsely claiming the item was not as described, arrived damaged, or was never received. They then initiate a chargeback through their payment provider. Grailed's Purchase Protection may cover eligible purchases, but it's crucial to follow their dispute resolution process. Be aware that if tracking confirms delivery, Grailed's Purchase Protection might not apply to 'item not delivered' claims.

Fake Tracking Number Loophole

In this scenario, a seller provides a tracking number for a shipment, but it either leads to a non-existent package or a package that was never sent. The tracking might show 'in transit' for an extended period, or falsely indicate delivery. This can delay or prevent a buyer from initiating a dispute within the necessary timeframe, leaving them without the item and their payment. Always verify tracking information through the carrier's official website and report any suspicious activity.

Enhancing Your Security with Safe Trade Services

For high-value items like the Off-White x Nike Dunk, which often exceed $500, utilizing Safe Trade Services' 'Premium Plan' for identity verification can add an extra layer of security. This service helps to confirm the identities of both buyers and sellers, reducing the risk of fraudulent transactions. For lower-value transactions, the 'Basic Plan' can still offer valuable peace of mind.

By staying informed about these common scams and employing robust verification methods, you can significantly enhance your safety when purchasing sought-after sneakers like the Off-White x Nike Dunk on Grailed.