5 Red Flags to Watch for on Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace has become one of the most popular platforms for buying and selling locally in Canada. But with millions of listings comes an unfortunate reality: scammers are everywhere. Here are the five biggest red flags to watch for before you hand over your money.

1. The Price Is Too Good to Be True

A brand-new iPhone for $200? A PS5 for $150? If the deal seems unbelievably good, it probably is. Scammers use below-market prices to create urgency and attract victims before they have time to think critically.

2. They Refuse to Meet in Person

If a seller insists on shipping instead of meeting locally - especially for items that should be inspected first - that’s a major red flag. Legitimate sellers are typically happy to meet in a public place.

3. They Want Payment Outside the Platform

Be wary of sellers who ask you to pay via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. These methods are nearly impossible to reverse. A secure escrow service like LockNDeal protects both parties by holding funds until the deal is confirmed.

4. Their Profile Was Just Created

Check the seller’s profile. A brand-new account with no friends, no history, and no reviews is a classic sign of a throwaway scam account. Legitimate sellers usually have established profiles with activity.

5. They Pressure You to Decide Immediately

“Someone else is interested” or “I need payment in the next hour” are classic pressure tactics. Real sellers don’t need to rush you. Take your time, verify the listing, and never let urgency override your judgment.

Bottom line: Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. And whenever possible, use a secure payment method that protects you - not one that leaves you vulnerable.

Want the full picture? Our complete guide to Facebook Marketplace scams in Canada covers every common scam, and this one covers Kijiji.