The Umbrella

Facebook Marketplace has become a juggernaut, but with success comes the inevitable presence of bad actors. Here is what to do if you were scammed on Facebook Marketplace.

1. Stay Calm:

If you suspect a scam on Facebook Marketplace, remain calm. Depending on your situation, you may be able to request a refund.

2. Document Everything:

Capture screenshots of the conversation, product listing, and any relevant details related to the scam.

3. Cease Communication:

Immediately stop communicating with the scammer to prevent further manipulation or potential harm. Additionally, block the scammer to thwart any further attempts at communication.

4. Report to Facebook:

• Report the incident on Facebook by navigating to the specific conversation or product listing and utilizing the available reporting options. Facebook has mechanisms to address scams.
• Contact Facebook Support directly through their Help Center. Provide details about the scam, including the user’s profile information and any evidence you have.
• Use the Facebook Resolution Center to open a dispute if you paid for the item through Facebook Marketplace. Facebook may assist in resolving the issue.
• Check if your situation qualifies under Facebook’s Purchase Protection policy. This includes unauthorized purchases, non-received orders, damaged items, or non-compliance with Facebook’s refund policy.

5. Notify Your Bank or Payment Platform:

If you made a payment, inform your bank or the payment platform used about the scam. They may offer guidance on disputing the transaction.

6. Contact Law Enforcement:

Depending on the specifics of the fraud, consider reaching out to state and local law enforcement or consumer protection entities like the state Attorney General’s office. Report the fraud to the Federal Trade Commission and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

Additional Tips:

• If you suspect a Facebook Marketplace scam even if you haven’t completed a transaction, report the scammer to Facebook to prevent further scams.
• If you come across a suspicious listing on Facebook, report it by clicking the three-dot menu next to the Share button and choosing “Report listing.”
• Secure your account by changing your password immediately if you believe that you’ve been the victim of a scam.