How to tell if eBay, Amazon, and Facebook Marketplace items are stolen

Long before the pandemic, online shopping was already popular because it’s so convenient. Buying directly from a trusted store or the manufacturer usually means you know exactly what you’re getting. But with the rise of online marketplaces, like those on Amazon and Facebook, things can be less predictable.

These marketplaces are like virtual flea markets, but you can’t inspect items in person. Because of this, stolen goods often end up being sold there. According to the National Retail Federation, something called “organized retail crime” (ORC) costs stores an average of $700,000 for every $1 billion in sales. In 2020, about 75% of stores said ORC increased that year.

So how can you tell if something for sale online is legal and legit or possibly stolen? Here are some warning signs to watch out for when shopping on online marketplaces.

The price that is too good to be true

If something is priced way lower than it should be or has an unusually big discount, it could be a sign that the item is stolen. Retired Beverly Hills Assistant Police Chief Marc Coopwood shared this warning with NewsNation Now.

If you’re unsure what the item usually costs, you can check the prices of similar items that have already been sold. On eBay, for example, click on “sold listings” in the left-hand menu on the product listings page to compare prices.

Suspicious or unclear listing

Look closely at the listing for the item you want to buy. Here are some warning signs to watch out for:

  • There’s no real description of the item, just a short, vague statement with no details.
  • The seller says the item was “found.”
  • It’s a locked computer, tablet, or smartphone, and the seller claims they “forgot” the password.

If you’re still interested in the item, make sure to contact the seller before making an offer. Ask lots of questions, like:

  • What is the condition of the item?
  • How long have they owned it?
  • Why are they selling it?

Also, ask the seller to provide proof that they own the item, like a receipt or a product registration record.

No ratings or feedback

Sometimes new sellers don’t have any ratings or feedback yet, and they might still be legit. However, it’s usually a bad sign if a seller has no feedback, only negative ratings, or reviews for just a few very cheap items. Some scammers use these tactics to make their profiles look trustworthy.

Anonymous profile

Online sellers aren’t always who they claim to be, but having an anonymous profile is a big warning sign, according to Coopwood.

The seller wants you to pay through money transfer

It’s a big warning sign if a seller asks you to pay using an untraceable money wire or a cashier’s check and won’t accept safer payment options like credit cards or PayPal. Do not use these payment methods because they make it hard to get your money back if something goes wrong.

The seller asks you for personal information

Be cautious if a seller asks for personal information, especially if they don’t share any details about themselves. Coopwood warns that sellers with anonymous profiles often ask for information you should never give out.

There is no way to contact the seller

Reputable sellers usually provide a way for buyers to contact them with questions or concerns. However, Coopwood explains that people selling stolen items often don’t offer any contact options.