Can people really make money on Craigslist.org?
I’ve heard of so many scams online. Isn’t Craigslist just another?
What are things new users on Craigslist need to be aware of?
Good questions! Craigslist is a “practically” FREE classified ad website where I can list and sell products, services, resumes, etc. Personally I think Craigslist is AMAZING for people looking to start an online business: it gives them a taste of how easily they can connect with buyers and move products they deemed as junk.
Recently I listed a car to sell on Craigslist.org. I’ve received quite a few calls, multiple legitimate emails, and finally this email, which I thought you all should be aware of:
Have you received emails like this when listing on Craigslist?
From: jimmy ralph <jimmyreal001@gmail.com>
Hello,
Good Morning I saw the advert of your item on the website and i decided to make enquiries about the item , the present condition is ok by me , and i will like to know if it needs any adjustment,.i will like you to get back to me with your full details where the check will be mailed out to such as follow.Full name that will be on the check.
Your full address okay not p.o.box.
And your state and city and zipcode
Telephone number.i will like you to get back to me with all this information so that you can get the check this week without any delay and i will like you to know that the payment will also comprise of the shipping fund and when the check clears in your bank then my shipping company will come for the pick up okay.
Thanks .
Now the red-flags:
- Order by check: can you say “BOUNCE” or “Counterfeit”? As Craigslist recommends in it’s terms –
NEVER WIRE FUNDS VIA WESTERN UNION, MONEYGRAM or any other wire service – anyone who asks you to do so is a scammer.
FAKE CASHIER CHECKS & MONEY ORDERS ARE COMMON, and BANKS WILL CASH THEM AND THEN HOLD YOU RESPONSIBLE when the fake is discovered weeks later.(source)
- Never mentions the actual product: “…I saw the advert of your item on the website…i decided to make enquiries about the item…” – What did this client really want to purchase from me, that’s the question. If, in the email, they don’t ask questions, talk about specifics, etc., it’s probably an automated or form letter.
- Shipping: Craigslist warns of this multiple times too –
DEAL LOCALLY WITH FOLKS YOU CAN MEET IN PERSON – follow this one simple rule and you will avoid 99% of the scam attempts on craigslist.
AVOID DEALS INVOLVING SHIPPING OR ESCROW SERVICES and know that ONLY A SCAMMER WILL “GUARANTEE” YOUR TRANSACTION.
Here’s an example of a legit Craigslist email:
We are interested in looking at your car, if it is still available. Please email us and give us more details, or a phone number and we’ll give you a call. Our number is 801-xxx-xxxx.Thank you!(their first and last names)
Craigslist is a great way to make quick money online. It’s local, no shipping fees, no listing fees, free for practically everything.
How have you seen success with Craigslist?