Experts warn shoppers about common risks on Facebook Marketplace

As activity continues to surge on Facebook Marketplace, consumer safety experts are urging shoppers to stay alert to common scams. 

Despite signs of slowing growth for Facebook overall, Facebook Marketplace remains widely popular. 

Data from Capital One Shopping estimates that around 491 million people have bought items through the platform, with more than half of social media shoppers making their most recent purchase there.

However, that popularity comes with increased fraud. Experts have noted that scammers often target users casually browsing listings and lure them into paying for items that do not exist, such as concert tickets, vehicles, or furniture.

Darius Kingsley, head of consumer banking practices at J.P. Morgan Chase, warned that fraudsters frequently push buyers to use irreversible payment methods. 

These may include wire transfers, gift cards, or services like Zelle. Once the money is sent, victims usually have no way to recover it.

Another common tactic involves advance deposit scams. Amy Mortlock, vice president of marketing at ShadowDragon, said scammers often create a sense of urgency by claiming multiple buyers are interested. 

This pressure is designed to rush victims into sending deposits through untraceable payment methods before thinking it through.

Therefore, experts have advised shoppers to research sellers carefully before committing to a purchase.