Buy and sell with confidence. Follow these tips to stay safe on Classifieds of Utah.
Always meet in public places during daylight hours—coffee shops, shopping centers, or parking lots. Never invite strangers to your home or go to theirs. Choose locations with security cameras and plenty of people around.
Never meet alone. Bring a trusted friend or family member to every transaction. A second set of eyes can help you spot potential issues and provides an extra layer of security.
If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is. Walk away from any transaction that makes you uncomfortable. Your safety is more important than any deal.
Take time to inspect items before handing over money. Test electronics, check for damage, and verify that items match the listing description. Don't rush the inspection process.
Provide accurate descriptions and disclose all defects or issues with your items. Clear, honest listings reduce disputes and help you build a positive reputation.
Always communicate through Classifieds of Utah's encrypted messaging system. This protects both you and the buyer. Avoid sharing personal phone numbers or email addresses until you're ready to meet.
Clear, well-lit photos from multiple angles help attract serious buyers and reduce disputes. Show items exactly as they are, including any wear or damage.
Cash is the safest payment method for in-person transactions. Count bills carefully and verify authenticity. Never accept personal checks or wire transfers before verifying the funds.
Check the buyer's Classifieds of Utah profile. Established accounts with positive reviews are generally more trustworthy. Be cautious of brand-new accounts making large purchases.
Check the seller's profile and review history. Established sellers with positive feedback are generally safer. Look for red flags like new accounts or multiple similar items listed.
Use our messaging system to ask detailed questions about condition, history, and specific details. Legitimate sellers will respond promptly and thoroughly.
Never wire money, use gift cards, or send payment before seeing the item in person. Legitimate sellers won't pressure you for upfront payment.
Keep screenshots or messages documenting what you agreed to purchase, including price, condition, and any promises made by the seller.
Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a trusted mechanic before buying a vehicle. Test drive thoroughly and verify ownership documentation and title. Never buy a vehicle with a salvage title unless you fully understand the implications.
Prices Too Good to Be True: Unrealistically low prices are often a sign of scams. Compare listings to market prices.
Pressure to Act Quickly: Scammers rush you into decisions. Take your time and don't let anyone pressure you.
Poor Quality Photos or Descriptions: Legitimate sellers provide clear photos and detailed descriptions. Vague listings may indicate scams.
Requests to Move Off Platform: Be cautious if sellers insist on communicating off Classifieds of Utah. Our encrypted messaging is for your protection.
Unusual Payment Methods: Requests for wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency are major red flags. These cannot be reversed if you're scammed.
Item Already Sold but Still Listed: Scammers repost sold items. If a deal seems fishy, it probably is.
1. Report the Listing: Click the "Report Listing" button to notify our team immediately.
2. Document Everything: Save all messages, photos, and communications related to the incident.
3. Contact Us: Email contact@classifiedsofutah.com with details about the scam or harassment. Include screenshots and listing details.
4. Contact Law Enforcement: For serious crimes or financial fraud, file a report with local law enforcement.
5. Protect Your Information: If personal information was compromised, consider placing a fraud alert on your credit report.
Our team takes all reports seriously and will take action against fraudulent or harassing accounts.