The Most Common Scams Targeting iPhone 17 Pro Max Purchases on Facebook Marketplace

Navigating Facebook Marketplace Scams for Your iPhone 17 Pro Max

Facebook Marketplace is a popular platform for buying and selling, but it also attracts scammers, especially when high-value items like the iPhone 17 Pro Max are involved. Being aware of common fraudulent tactics is crucial to protecting your investment. This guide details prevalent scams and how to avoid them.

Common Scams to Watch Out For

• ✓ The Zelle/Venmo Overpayment Scam: Scammers may send more money than the item's price and ask for the difference back. The initial payment is often fraudulent or from a stolen account, leaving you responsible for the refund.
• ✓ Fake Pre-Paid Shipping Label / Empty Box Swap: A scammer might send a prepaid shipping label and then claim the item was shipped, but it was either an empty box or sent to the wrong address. You'll have proof of shipping, but no item.
• ✓ The 'Google Voice' OTP Verification: Scammers request your phone number to send a Google Voice verification code, which they then ask you to relay. This allows them to create a Google Voice account using your number for further fraudulent activities or identity theft.
• ✓ Counterfeit Tech: Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Scammers may sell fake or refurbished 'iPhone 17 Pro Max' models that are actually counterfeit, using high-quality replicas or older models.
• ✓ Phishing 'Business Account' Email: For high-value items, scammers might pose as buyers and send fake emails claiming you need to upgrade to a 'business account' to receive payment, often requiring an upfront fee from you.
• ✓ Fake Receipt/Payment Screenshot: A scammer may send a fake payment confirmation email or screenshot to trick you into believing you've been paid, urging you to ship the item before you've verified the funds in your account.

Protecting Yourself

Always verify that funds have cleared into your account before shipping any item. Never share verification codes sent via text or email. If a deal seems too good to be true or a buyer is pushy, it's likely a scam. Prioritize meeting in person in a safe, public location for local transactions.

Secure Transactions with Safe Trade Services

For high-value purchases like an iPhone 17 Pro Max, consider using Safe Trade Services. Their Premium Plan offers enhanced identity verification for peer-to-peer transactions, adding a crucial layer of security to your purchase and ensuring you're dealing with a legitimate seller.