Practice Safe Secondhand

Please don't let common sense be clouded by what looks like an unbelievable bargain. If it looks too good to be true it probably is.

Where possible, meet face to face to see the item and exchange payment. When meeting a stranger, always ensure there is someone else with you or meet in a public place.

Always:

Unless you are paid in cash, always wait for payment to clear before handing over goods. Remember, in some situations (particularly overseas payments) a payment could still be withdrawn by the bank after it has cleared. Talk to your bank for more information on this.
If you are being paid cash, study the notes for signs of counterfeit by feeling the paper, studying the printing, checking the watermark and the metallic thread. More information on checking for counterfeit money is at the Bank of England web site

Consider:

When buying, where possible pay by credit card (not debit card) as in most cases the card company will provide some protection.
If you make a payment before receiving an item, you risk losing that money if the item never arrives or is not as described.
For high value transactions, it is safest to complete the sale in person.
It pays to have an HPI check when purchasing a second hand vehicle. This check will help you determine whether a car has been clocked, stolen or is a repaired insurance write off.

Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

Find out more:

Learn more about staying safe online at the following web sites:

Do not proceed if:

The seller of a pet will not let you see the animal in person and is offering to ship it to you.
The buyer offers you too much money, asking you to refund the difference to his business partner or friend.
The seller is asking for payment by postal order, Western Union, MoneyGram or other untraceable methods.

Be extremely cautious if:

If a seller has only given a mobile telephone number or email address, and wants to meet at a location that is not their home. They may be trying to hide their identity.
If a buyer offers to purchase a valuable item sight unseen, or has no interest in the items condition or features, they may be more interested in your money.
If an item looks particularly cheap.
If the item is in high demand and is scarce in the shops (these items are favoured by scammers).

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