Craigslist is a boon to those looking to buy/sell/trade. It’s a very powerful and useful tool. As with many such tools, you need to exercise a little precaution.

If you meet someone for a transaction, do it away from your home. I prefer and recommend public areas.

Be cautious of those wanting to pay you more than you ask or with a money order. Money orders can be forged.

If you have a friend with you, it will help to have someone evaluate your purchase and help in the event something happens.

Lastly, If you have a major item you are buying or selling, get a burner phone. I had a unique situation come up that clued me in to this.

I sold an RV conversion van. It passed inspection, had A/C work on it and a lot of new extras. I cut $400 off the price to cover incidentals. The buyer told me she had a mechanic friend to do work if needed. During the following month, I got a few calls on how to operate this or that. Over a month later, I get a text with something that was mechanically impossible.

At one point, I could tell she had buyer’s remorse, so I offered to buy it back for the same price she gave if she couldn’t get things corrected. That was a big mistake. What began as a minor issue (inspection) became issues with everything including the A/C, which I just paid $300 to have fixed by a mechanic. At one point there was an accusation that I knowingly sold something deficient. I will not be insulted, especially after going so far out to help someone. At that point I explained how adults do business and blocked the number. This should have ended it.

I began to get texts from unknown numbers for “Alicia” (buyer’s name) about this or that scam. While I have no interest in tracking it down and proving she’s behind the harassing behavior, it’s highly likely she gave my number to suspicious websites and scammers. If I had a burner to use for the listing, I would not get so many scam calls.

Remember, you can run into some of the most petty, childish people on the Internet. You can run into some nice people too. It’s like the real world. Use caution with strangers, just as you would in the real world.

You’ll find more tips in the book. You can read the Kindle book for free with an account.

Good luck and stay safe online!