Check an online classified ad before a transaction
Inspect the item, seller and platform procedure before paying or sharing personal information.
Follow the method ↓
The answer in 30 seconds
A plausible photograph, friendly message or positive rating can help assess an offer but cannot establish that the item exists or that the person controls it. A rushed request to move payment outside the platform deserves particular care.
Compare the listing with similar offers, ask specific questions, use the platform's documented communication and payment protections, and stop when identity, condition or handover cannot be verified.
Examples to adapt
Check model, condition and collection options before any deposit.
Read the platform's actual buyer protection terms rather than relying on a screenshot.
Pause when the seller insists on an external link or immediate transfer.
Follow the method
- 1Read the full listing
Compare description, photographs, price and stated defects with the item you expect.
- 2Ask verifiable questions
Request details that clarify model, condition, ownership and handover.
- 3Use documented channels
Check the platform's messaging, payment and dispute procedure directly on its site.
- 4Complete cautiously
Inspect the item where feasible and keep transaction evidence and confirmation.
A checklist to keep
Use these checks to record what you found. The grid supports a decision; it does not make one for you.
| Check | What to examine | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Item | Does the description match evidence? | Inspect |
| Seller | Are answers coherent and specific? | Ask |
| Price | Is pressure or an anomaly present? | Compare |
| Payment | What protection applies? | Read |
| Handover | How will receipt be verified? | Plan |
Free, no sign-up. UTF-8 text with semicolon-separated columns.
What to check
A platform logo in an email or screenshot is easy to imitate.
An off-platform payment may remove platform protections.
A seller profile or rating is one signal, not proof of legitimacy.
Common questions
Is a bank transfer always unsafe?
Risk depends on the transaction; check what protection and recovery the chosen method actually provides.
Should I share identity documents?
Only when genuinely required through a trusted process, and limit unnecessary personal details.
Sources and documentation
Documentation consulted on . Examples are illustrative; interfaces and results may change.