- Do not provide payment to anyone you have not met in person.
- Beware offers involving shipping - deal with locals you can meet in person.
- Never wire funds (e.g. Zelle, Venmo, Western Union) - anyone who asks you to is likely 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 buy until you see the item in person — that amazing "deal" may not exist.
Marked with City of San Diego signage in a well-lit area, is in clear view of the San Diego Police Department’s front door.
Use the link below to see all locations:
https://www.sandiego.gov/citycouncil/cd ... afety/dots
Recognizing scams
Most scams attempts involve one or more of the following:
- Email or text from someone that is not local to your area.
- Vague initial inquiry, e.g. asking about "the item" or making offers that sound too good to be true.
- Poor grammar/spelling.
- Western Union, Money Gram, cashier check, money order, Paypal, Zelle, shipping, escrow service, or a "guarantee."
- Inability or refusal to meet face-to-face to complete the transaction.
- Insist on a public meeting place, such as an SDPD parking lot, a cafe, bank, or shopping center.
- Do not meet in a secluded place, or invite strangers into your home.
- Be especially careful buying/selling high value items.
- Tell a friend or family member where you're going.
- Take your cell phone along if you have one.
- Consider having a friend accompany you.
- Trust your instincts.