The Most Common Scams on OfferUp for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

Navigating OfferUp Safely: Common Scams for Your Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is a high-value item, making it a prime target for scammers on platforms like OfferUp. Staying informed about common fraudulent practices is crucial for protecting your investment and personal information.

Scams Targeting Buyers

• ✓ Google Voice Verification Code: Scammers may ask you to send them a code received via Google Voice to 'verify' your account or listing. This is a tactic to gain access to your account or use your number for fraudulent purposes.
• ✓ Fake Payment App Screenshot: A scammer will provide a fabricated screenshot of a payment confirmation, claiming the transaction is complete. They then pressure you to ship the item before verifying the funds in your account.
• ✓ Shipping Label Outside App: Scammers might send you a shipping label outside of OfferUp's system, often via email, to bypass platform protections. This can lead to receiving a fake label or having your payment information compromised.
• ✓ Empty Box Shipping Fraud: After you pay for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, the seller ships an empty box or a box filled with worthless items, claiming it was delivered. They rely on buyers not thoroughly checking the listing details for phrases like 'box only.'
• ✓ Non-Existent Item Deposit: A seller might request a deposit to hold a Galaxy S26 Ultra, only for the item to not exist or be unavailable once the deposit is paid.

Scams Targeting Sellers

• ✓ The 'Text Me' Phone Number Phish: Scammers will insist on communicating via text message outside of OfferUp, often asking for your phone number. This can lead to phishing attempts or further efforts to move the transaction off-platform.
• ✓ Overpayment via Cashier's Check: A buyer will claim to have accidentally overpaid for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and request a refund of the difference. The initial payment, however, is fraudulent (e.g., a bad check), leaving you out the item and the refunded amount.
• ✓ Fake TruYou Identity Theft: While OfferUp has a 'TruYou' verification, scammers might try to mimic this process to obtain your personal identification documents or details, leading to identity theft.

General Scams to Watch For

• ✓ Robbery at Unsafe Meetup: Arranging to meet a buyer or seller in an isolated or unsafe location for a high-value item like the S26 Ultra can lead to robbery or assault.

Secure Your Transaction with Safe Trade Services

For high-value items like the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, we strongly recommend utilizing Safe Trade Services' ID verification. Our Premium Plan offers enhanced security for transactions over $500, providing an additional layer of trust and safety for both buyers and sellers.

By understanding these common scams and employing protective measures, you can significantly reduce your risk when buying or selling on OfferUp.