Avoiding Scams

Deal locally, face-to-face —follow this one rule and avoid 99% of scam attempts.

• Do not extend payment to anyone you have not met in person.
• Beware offers involving shipping – HIP is meant to be run in-person only.
• Never wire funds (e.g. Western Union) – anyone who asks you to is a scammer.
• Don’t accept cashier/certified checks or money orders – banks cash fakes, then hold you responsible.
• Transactions are between users only, no third party provides a “guarantee”.
• Never give out financial info (bank account, social security, Paypal account, etc).
• Do not rent or purchase sight-unseen—that amazing “deal” may not exist.

Recognizing scams:

• Most scams attempts involve one or more of the following:
• Messages from someone that is not local to your area.
• Vague initial inquiry, e.g. asking about “the item.” Poor grammar/spelling.
• Western Union, Money Gram, cashier check, money order, Paypal, shipping, escrow service, or a “guarantee.”
• Inability or refusal to meet face-to-face to complete the transaction.