7 Red Flags to Watch For When Buying an M4 MacBook Pro on Facebook Marketplace
Learn to spot common scams targeting M4 MacBook Pro buyers on Facebook Marketplace. This guide highlights 7 crucial red flags to protect your purchase.
Beware of M4 MacBook Pro Scams on Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace can be a great place to find deals, but it's also a hunting ground for scammers, especially when it comes to high-value electronics like the M4 MacBook Pro. Understanding the common red flags is your first line of defense.
7 Red Flags to Watch For
The 'Google Voice' OTP Verification: A scammer might ask you to verify your identity by sharing a one-time code sent to your phone. This code is often used to set up a Google Voice number, which they can then use for fraudulent activities. Never share verification codes.
The Zelle/Venmo Overpayment Scam: A buyer may claim to have accidentally overpaid and ask for a refund of the difference. They often send a fake payment confirmation. Always verify the funds directly in your banking app before sending any money back.
Fake Pre-Paid Shipping Label: If a seller offers to send a pre-paid shipping label, be cautious. Scammers may provide labels that allow them to intercept the package or claim non-receipt to get a refund after you've shipped the item. It's safer for the seller to arrange shipping or for the buyer to handle it directly.
Counterfeit Tech: High-end electronics like the M4 MacBook Pro are targets for counterfeiters. Scammers might sell devices that look genuine but are equipped with lower-quality components or are not genuine Apple products. A device may also be 'Activation Locked' if it's stolen or previously part of a company's fleet, rendering it unusable.
Phishing 'Business Account' Email: Be wary of emails that claim to be from Facebook or a payment processor, asking you to click a link to confirm payment or update your account details. These are phishing attempts to steal your login credentials or financial information.
The 'Empty Box/Mismatched Item Swap': This scam can occur during in-person transactions, especially if the seller is rushing the exchange. The M4 MacBook Pro could be replaced with a heavier but worthless object, or a significantly older/damaged model might be swapped.
Fake Receipt/Payment Screenshot: Scammers can easily create fake screenshots of payment confirmations. Never rely on a screenshot as proof of payment. Always log into your own banking or payment app to confirm funds have been received and cleared.
Protecting Your M4 MacBook Pro Purchase
When purchasing an M4 MacBook Pro, which can represent a significant investment (new models in early 2026 are priced upwards of $1,500), it's crucial to prioritize secure transactions. For items valued over $500, consider utilizing Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for enhanced identity verification. This adds an extra layer of security, ensuring you're dealing with a legitimate seller.
- ✓ Always conduct transactions within Facebook Marketplace's secure messaging and payment systems when possible.
- ✓ Verify the seller's profile, reviews, and transaction history.
- ✓ If meeting in person, choose a well-lit, public location and test the M4 MacBook Pro thoroughly before completing the transaction.
- ✓ Never share personal or financial information outside of the platform.
- ✓ If a deal seems too good to be true, it almost certainly is.
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