The 5 Most Common Facebook Marketplace Scams in 2025 (And How to Spot Them)
Facebook Marketplace is a goldmine. It has zero seller fees, huge local traffic, and is faster than eBay. But it is also the "Wild West" of the internet.
For every legitimate buyer, there are three bots trying to steal your information, your money, or your account. The scammers have evolved. They don't just send bad checks anymore; they use psychological tricks involving Zelle, Google Voice, and fake courier services.
In this guide, we will dissect the specific scripts scammers use so you can spot them instantly and block them.
1. The Google Voice Code Scam (Identity Theft)
This is currently the #1 scam on the platform. It happens within minutes of you posting an item.
The Script:
"I am very interested in your item. But there are too many fake sellers on here. Can I send you a 6-digit code to your phone number to prove you are a real person?"
The Trap:
The scammer is trying to set up a Google Voice account. To verify it, Google Voice sends a code to a "real" phone number (yours).
If you give them the code, they successfully create a Google Voice number linked to your identity. They then use that number to scam other people, and the police trace it back to you.
The Fix:
Never share a 6-digit code with anyone. Reply: "I do not share codes. Check my profile reviews if you want proof I am real."
2. The Zelle/Venmo "Business Account" Email
This targets sellers of high-ticket items (laptops, cameras, furniture).
The Script:
"I just sent you the $500 via Zelle. Check your email."
The Trap:
You check your email (often your Spam folder). You see an email that looks like it's from Zelle, but the address is `zelle-payment-service@gmail.com`.
The email says: "The buyer sent $500, but you have a limit. The buyer must send an extra $300 to upgrade your account to Business Status. You must then refund the $300."
It sounds ridiculous, but people fall for it. No money was ever sent. If you "refund" the $300, you are sending your own money to the scammer.
The Fix:
Only trust the app. Open your Zelle/Venmo app. If the balance didn't go up, the money isn't there. Ignore all emails.
3. The "My Cousin Will Pick It Up" (Courier Scam)
Scammers use this to avoid meeting in person (because they are often in another country).
The Script:
"I am working offshore / out of town. I really want this. I will pay you via Zelle upfront + extra for holding it. My movers/son/cousin will come pick it up tomorrow."
The Trap:
This leads to either the "Zelle Email Scam" (see above) or a Fake Check scam. They send a fake payment, you hand over the item to the "mover," and days later the payment bounces.
The Fix:
Keep it local. "Cash only. In person only. No movers." 99% of scammers will stop responding immediately.
4. The Overpayment / Fake Check
An old classic that refuses to die.
The buyer sends you a check (often digital) for $1,500 for a $500 item. They claim it was an "accident" or meant for the movers. They ask you to wire back the $1,000 difference.
Days later, the bank realizes the check is fake and removes the full $1,500 from your account. You are out the $1,000 you sent them.
5. The Phishing Link ("Is this item still available?")
Sometimes, the goal is just to steal your Facebook login.
The buyer sends a link saying: "Is this you in this photo?" or "I saw this item cheaper here [Link]."
If you click the link, it takes you to a fake Facebook login page. If you type your password, they steal your account and use it to scam your friends.
Safety Checklist for Sellers
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Check the Profile: Click on the buyer's name. Was the account created in 2025? Does it have 1 profile picture and 0 friends? Block immediately.
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Meet in Public: "Police Station Exchange Zones" are best. Busy gas stations or bank lobbies are good alternatives. Never have people come into your home unless you have someone else with you.
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Cash is King: For items under $100, demand cash. It is irreversible and untraceable.
FAQ
Is shipping on Facebook Marketplace safe?
Only if you use "Facebook Checkout." This provides Purchase Protection. If a buyer asks you to ship an item but pay via PayPal Friends & Family or CashApp, it is a scam. You have no protection if they claim the item never arrived.
Can I get my money back from a Zelle scam?
Usually, no. Banks treat Zelle transfers like handing someone cash. If you authorized the transfer (even if you were tricked), the bank often refuses to refund you.
Why are there so many scams?
Because Facebook allows anyone to create an account instantly. Unlike eBay or Amazon which require ID verification for sellers, Facebook is open. It is a volume game for scammers.
Conclusion
Don't let this scare you away from Facebook Marketplace. It is still the best way to sell items locally for 0% fees.
Just follow the Golden Rule: If it's complicated, it's a scam.
Selling an old couch should be simple: "Here is the cash, here is the couch." As soon as codes, emails, movers, and upgrades get involved, walk away.