Is OfferUp a Scam? How to Spot and Avoid Scams in 2026

Is OfferUp a Scam? Your 2026 Safety Guide

OfferUp is a legitimate platform, but like any online marketplace, it attracts scammers. Understanding their tactics is crucial for a safe trading experience, especially when dealing with high-demand items such as Olympics 2028 Opening Ceremony tickets. This guide will help you identify and avoid common scams.

Common Scams Targeting OfferUp Users

• ✓ Google Voice Verification Code: Scammers may ask for a verification code sent to your phone, claiming it's for identity verification. This code is used to set up a Google Voice number in their name, allowing them to impersonate you or conduct further scams. OfferUp will never ask for verification codes outside of its own app.
• ✓ Fake Payment App Screenshot: A scammer might send a convincing but fake screenshot of a payment confirmation. Always verify the funds directly in your own bank account or payment app before releasing the item. Never trust a screenshot alone.
• ✓ Shipping Label Outside App: Be wary if a seller asks to arrange shipping outside of OfferUp's system. They might send a fraudulent shipping label or invoice, leading you to ship the item without receiving legitimate payment.
• ✓ The 'Text Me' Phone Number Phish: Scammers often pressure users to move the conversation off the OfferUp platform to text or email. This is to bypass OfferUp's safety features and potentially gather personal information for phishing or identity theft.
• ✓ Empty Box Shipping Fraud: In this scam, a buyer receives an empty box or just the packaging after paying for an item. This is particularly risky if the seller manipulates shipping weight or documentation to falsely claim delivery.
• ✓ Non-Existent Item Deposit: Sellers may ask for a deposit for an item they don't actually possess or intend to sell. Once the deposit is paid, they disappear, leaving the buyer with no item and no refund.

Protecting Your Olympics 2028 Opening Ceremony Purchase

When buying high-value items like Olympics 2028 Opening Ceremony tickets, it's essential to verify the seller and the transaction. Look for the 'TruYou' verification badge on profiles, which indicates the seller has verified their identity with a government ID. Always check seller reviews and transaction history.

For valuable P2P (peer-to-peer) transactions, consider using Safe Trade Services. For items like Olympics 2028 Opening Ceremony tickets, which can be quite valuable, the 'Premium Plan' offers enhanced ID verification, providing an extra layer of security for both buyer and seller.

• ✓ Keep all communication within the OfferUp app.
• ✓ Never share personal information, verification codes, or passwords.
• ✓ Verify payment independently before releasing any item.
• ✓ Meet in safe, public locations for in-person transactions.
• ✓ Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true.
• ✓ Utilize Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for high-value P2P transactions.

By staying informed and vigilant, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to scams on OfferUp and ensure a secure transaction for your Olympics 2028 Opening Ceremony tickets.