7 Warning Signs of a Canon EOS R7 Scam on Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace: 7 Warning Signs of a Canon EOS R7 Scam

The Zelle/Venmo Overpayment Scam

Be wary of buyers who claim to have overpaid for the Canon EOS R7 and request the difference back. They often provide fake screenshots or emails as proof. Once you send the excess amount, you'll discover the original payment was fraudulent, leaving you out of pocket. Always verify payment directly through the official app, not via screenshots or emails from unknown senders.

Fake Pre-Paid Shipping Label

Scammers may offer to send you a pre-paid shipping label for the Canon EOS R7. This label might be fake or linked to a fraudulent payment. They could then reroute the package or claim it never arrived after you ship it. Always use official shipping methods and confirm payment has cleared before sending any item.

The 'Google Voice' OTP Verification

A common tactic is for a scammer to ask for your phone number to send a Google Voice verification code, claiming it's to 'prove you're a real person' or 'verify the listing.' If you share this code, they can use it to create a Google Voice number linked to your phone, enabling them to commit fraud anonymously. Never share verification codes sent via text.

Empty Box or Mismatched Item Swap

When purchasing a Canon EOS R7, especially in an in-person exchange, be extremely cautious of a bait-and-switch. Scammers might swap the item for an empty box, a non-functional model, or a significantly different product. Always thoroughly inspect the camera before handing over payment.

Counterfeit Tech

The Canon EOS R7, being a desirable piece of technology, is a target for counterfeit scams. Scammers may sell fake or heavily modified versions of the camera that appear genuine but have underlying issues or are outright non-functional. Always research the seller and be suspicious of prices that are too good to be true.

Fake Receipt/Payment Screenshot

Scammers often use fabricated receipts or payment confirmation screenshots to trick you into believing a transaction is complete. They might urge you to ship the Canon EOS R7 immediately based on these fakes. Always log into your payment provider's official app or website to confirm funds have actually been received before releasing the item.

Phishing 'Business Account' Email

You might receive an email claiming a payment for your Canon EOS R7 is on hold and requires you to upgrade to a 'business account' or pay a fee to receive funds. These emails are fraudulent and designed to steal your account credentials or trick you into sending money. Always verify payment status through official channels and be wary of emails from suspicious domains.

Protecting Your Purchase with Safe Trade Services

For high-value items like the Canon EOS R7, which often exceed $500, utilizing Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for ID verification is highly recommended. This adds an extra layer of security by verifying the identity of the seller, significantly reducing the risk of dealing with a scammer.

By staying informed about these common red flags and employing verification services, you can significantly enhance your safety when buying or selling on Facebook Marketplace.