7 Warning Signs of a MacBook Pro 17-inch Scam on OfferUp

Protecting Yourself from MacBook Pro Scams on OfferUp

When looking to purchase a high-value item like a MacBook Pro 17-inch on OfferUp, it's crucial to be aware of the potential scams that can occur. Scammers often target popular and expensive electronics, and understanding their tactics is the first step to a safe transaction. This guide outlines seven critical warning signs to watch out for.

Common Scams Targeting MacBook Pro 17-inch Buyers

• ✓ **Google Voice Verification Code:** Scammers may ask you to "verify" your legitimacy by sending a code to your phone, claiming it's for security. In reality, they use this code to activate a Google Voice number, which they then use for their own fraudulent activities.
• ✓ **Fake Payment App Screenshot:** The scammer shows a convincing screenshot of a payment confirmation, but no actual funds have been transferred to your account. They rely on the visual similarity to actual payment confirmations to trick you.
• ✓ **Shipping Label Outside App:** A scammer may try to arrange shipping outside of OfferUp's secure system, often by sending a fake invoice or a link to a fraudulent shipping website. This is to bypass OfferUp's buyer protection.
• ✓ **The 'Text Me' Phone Number Phish:** Similar to the Google Voice scam, scammers will try to move the conversation off the platform by asking you to text them directly. This is often a prelude to asking for verification codes or sending malicious links.
• ✓ **Empty Box Shipping Fraud:** The seller ships an empty box or one with a worthless item, claiming it's the product you ordered. This is particularly insidious when combined with fraudulent tracking information.
• ✓ **Non-Existent Item Deposit:** A scammer lists a desirable item like a MacBook Pro 17-inch, requests a deposit to "secure" it, and then disappears with your money without ever providing the product.
• ✓ **Robbery at Unsafe Meetup:** While not directly related to the product itself, agreeing to meet in an isolated or unsafe location for an in-person transaction significantly increases the risk of robbery or physical harm.

Red Flags to Watch For

• ✓ **Price Too Good to Be True:** An unrealistically low price for a MacBook Pro 17-inch is a major red flag, often indicating a counterfeit item or a non-existent product.
• ✓ **Vague or Stock Photos:** Scammers may use generic images instead of actual photos of the MacBook Pro 17-inch they are selling. Always ask for clear, recent photos of the actual item.
• ✓ **Urgency and Pressure Tactics:** A scammer might try to rush you into a decision by creating a false sense of urgency, such as claiming they need to sell quickly due to an emergency.
• ✓ **Suspicious Payment Requests:** Be wary of requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or other non-traceable methods.
• ✓ **Seller's Profile History:** A new seller with no reviews or a seller with multiple identical listings might be a scammer.

Ensuring a Secure Transaction with Safe Trade Services

For high-value items like a MacBook Pro 17-inch, consider using Safe Trade Services for enhanced security. Our **Premium Plan** offers robust identity verification, providing an extra layer of trust for both buyer and seller in P2P transactions. This verification can help mitigate the risks associated with online marketplaces.