How to Safely Buy a Meta Quest 4 on Facebook Marketplace (2026 Guide)

Your Guide to Safely Buying a Meta Quest 4 on Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is a popular platform for buying and selling, but it's also a target for scammers. When purchasing a high-value item like the Meta Quest 4, it's crucial to be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions.

Common Scams to Watch Out For

• ✓ Counterfeit Tech (AirPods/Dyson): Scammers may try to sell fake or refurbished Meta Quest 4 units that appear legitimate but are of poor quality or contain counterfeit components. These devices may fail after a short period or not function as advertised.
• ✓ Empty Box/Mismatched Item Swap: A common tactic involves the seller sending an empty box or a box with a significantly different, lower-value item inside, hoping the buyer won't inspect it thoroughly or that the platform's protection is insufficient.
• ✓ The 'Google Voice' OTP Verification: Scammers might ask you to verify a code sent to a Google Voice number, which they use to gain access to your accounts or facilitate fraudulent transactions.
• ✓ Fake Receipt/Payment Screenshot: Be wary of sellers who provide only screenshots of payments or receipts. Always verify the transaction directly in your own banking or payment app, as these can be easily faked.
• ✓ The Zelle/Venmo Overpayment: A scammer might claim to have overpaid and request you refund the difference. Often, the initial payment is fraudulent, and you end up losing both the item and the 'refunded' money.
• ✓ Phishing 'Business Account' Email: You might receive emails impersonating payment services, claiming you need to upgrade to a 'business account' or pay a fee to receive funds. These emails are designed to steal your login credentials or trick you into sending money.
• ✓ Stolen/Ghost Rental Property: While less applicable to a physical product like the Meta Quest 4, this scam highlights how scammers use fake listings to obtain personal information or upfront payments. Be cautious of any requests for personal details beyond what's necessary for the transaction.

How to Protect Yourself

• ✓ Verify Seller Legitimacy: Check the seller's profile for reviews, history, and any suspicious activity. A new profile with few interactions can be a red flag.
• ✓ Inspect the Item In-Person: Whenever possible, arrange to meet the seller in a safe, public location (like a police station parking lot or a busy shopping center) to inspect the Meta Quest 4 thoroughly before completing the purchase. Test its functionality if possible.
• ✓ Use Secure Payment Methods: Opt for payment methods that offer buyer protection, such as Facebook Pay or PayPal (Goods and Services). Avoid unverified payment apps like Zelle or Venmo for transactions with unknown sellers, as these often lack buyer protection.
• ✓ Beware of Deals Too Good to Be True: If the price for a Meta Quest 4 seems significantly lower than the market value, it's likely a scam.
• ✓ Do Not Share Sensitive Information: Never share your login credentials, one-time passcodes, or financial details outside of the secure payment platform.
• ✓ Trust Your Gut: If something feels off about the seller or the deal, don't proceed. Legitimate sellers will understand your need for caution.

By staying informed about common scams and employing these safety measures, you can significantly reduce your risk when buying a Meta Quest 4 on Facebook Marketplace.