The Better Business Bureau has a warning about a scam trying to lure you with a free big-ticket item.
The bureau said its scam tracker has received a lot of reports of this scam.
You’re scrolling through Facebook Marketplace or another social media platform and you see someone is trying to get rid of a big item – such as a piano – for free.
When you reach out to the owner, the person has a story about downsizing due to a move or other circumstances.
The piano is free, but you must cover the shipping.
The owner puts you in touch with movers who will deliver it.
You contact the movers, who ask you to send money via Zelle, PayPal or another digital wallet app. They may also request prepaid debit cards.
You send the money, but the piano never arrives. You’ve been scammed.
What can you do to avoid this scam?
- Confirm that high-value items are real. Facebook Marketplace warns that scammers often use underpriced items to lure buyers into a scam.
- Avoid deals that involve third-party shipping. The Better Business Bureau said it’s best to buy items directly from the seller. Asking for payment for escrow services or shipping is a common scam tactic when it comes to buying items online.
- If you spot a scam like this on Facebook Marketplace, report it to Facebook.
This can happen on any social media platform, so be on alert.
