Abuse And Spam

Fraud & Scam Awareness

Unfortunately, there are people that will use internet sites like ForSaleByOwner.com to run all manner of scams on users. We do all that we can to prevent the willful misuse of our platform, however; every day, the scams get more and more sophisticated. We ask that our users be cognizant of the risk and review the following basic ways to recognize and avoid being scammed.

Recognizing and Avoiding Scams:

• Use secure, traceable transactions when making payments – Do not pay a deposit by wire transfer, prepaid money card, gift card, or other non-traditional payment method. Also, refuse to make “overpayments” and never enter into “handshake” deals without a contract.
• Don’t accept suspect cashier/certified checks or money orders – Banks will process and cash the fakes, then hold you responsible.
• Never give out financial or personally identifiable information – This includes banking and credit card information, your birthdate, Social Security/Social Insurance Numbers, PayPal account etc.
• Suspicious communications – Watch for parties communicating using poor grammar, spelling or those who send nonsensical messages. Be wary of parties that are only willing to text/email and those that will never speak on the phone or that refuse to meet in person. Generally these people will claim to be “travelling” and unavailable to talk or located in a foreign country and unable to speak other than via text or email.
• Deals Too Good to be True – If the list price is obviously too low, or the terms are too generous as compared to the market, it’s likely a scam.
• Don’t be pressured to act immediately – Scammers typically try to make you think a listing is in high demand in order to push you into immediate action without consulting family, friends, or financial advisors. Say no to high pressure sales tactics.

Who Should I notify about fraud or scam attempts?

• Internet Fraud Complaint Center
• FTC complaint form and hotline: 877-FTC-HELP (877-382-4357)
• Consumer Sentinel/Military (for armed service members and families)
• If you are defrauded by someone you met in person, contact your local police department.
• If you suspect that a listing posted here may be connected to a scam, please send us the details at support@forsalebyowner.com or call us at 888–FOR–SALE.