10 Common Scams to Avoid When Buying an iPhone 17 Pro Max on Craigslist

Your Guide to Avoiding Scams on Craigslist for iPhone 17 Pro Max

Craigslist can be a great place to find deals, but it's also a hunting ground for scammers, especially when high-value items like the iPhone 17 Pro Max are involved. Stay vigilant and informed to ensure your transaction is secure.

Common Scams Targeting iPhone 17 Pro Max Buyers

• ✓ Too-Good-To-Be-True Tech: Be extremely wary of iPhone 17 Pro Max listings priced significantly below market value. Scammers use these 'too good to be true' offers to lure in unsuspecting buyers. Often, these are counterfeit devices, blacklisted phones, or simply non-existent products.
• ✓ Cashier's Check Overpayment Scam: A scammer will offer to pay more than the asking price via a cashier's check, claiming it was a mistake or to cover shipping. They will then ask you to wire back the difference. The cashier's check will eventually bounce, leaving you responsible for the full amount, including the funds you wired.
• ✓ Fake Google Voice Verification: Scammers will pose as a buyer and ask you to verify your legitimacy by sending them a Google Voice verification code that you receive via text. Once you provide the code, they use it to set up a Google Voice number linked to your phone number, which they then use for their own fraudulent activities.
• ✓ identity verification Service Fraud: Scammers create fake identity verification websites that mimic legitimate ones to trick buyers into sending money. They claim this service will hold funds securely, but the fake identity verification service simply absconds with your money. Always independently verify any suggested identity verification service.
• ✓ Phishing 'Safety' Emails: Be cautious of emails that appear to be from Craigslist, claiming to offer 'guarantees' or 'verification' services for a fee. These are phishing attempts designed to steal your payment information or login credentials. Craigslist does not offer such services.
• ✓ Personal Check Bounce: Similar to cashier's checks, scammers may offer to pay with a personal check, often for an amount exceeding the sale price. After you deposit the check and send the difference or the item, the check will bounce, leaving you with financial losses.
• ✓ Counterfeit Items: Be highly suspicious of new, high-end electronics like the iPhone 17 Pro Max offered at unusually low prices. These are often counterfeit or refurbished devices passed off as new. Always inspect the product thoroughly if meeting in person, and be aware of 'blacklisted' phones that are unusable.

How to Protect Yourself

When dealing with high-value items like an iPhone 17 Pro Max on Craigslist, prioritize in-person transactions in a safe, public location. If possible, meet at a police station or a busy public area. Always inspect the item thoroughly before handing over payment. For P2P transactions involving items over $500, consider using Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for verified identity checks, adding an extra layer of security. For lower-value items, the Basic Plan can still offer valuable peace of mind.

By staying informed about these common scams and employing cautious practices, you can significantly reduce your risk when buying an iPhone 17 Pro Max on Craigslist.