Craigslist is a great place to buy and sell used stuff. You can find local deals, sell unwanted items, and sometimes even make new friends. But while Craigslist can be awesome, you also need to be smart about safety. Things don’t always go as planned, and that’s why we’ve got your back.
TL;DR:
Craigslist can be super helpful for scoring deals or selling your things. But it also comes with risks. Always meet in public places, trust your gut, and never share personal info. Follow our fun and easy safety tips, and you’ll be just fine!
1. Use a Public Meeting Spot
Always meet in a safe, public area with lots of people around. Think coffee shops, police station parking lots, or busy malls. Many police departments even have zones for online exchanges. Use them!
If someone refuses to meet in public, that’s a big red flag. Politely move on to the next buyer or seller.
2. Bring a Buddy
Two is better than one. If you’re going to meet someone, especially in an unfamiliar place, take a friend along. It’s safer and way less awkward if things get weird.
Can’t find a buddy? At least tell someone where you’re going, who you’re meeting, and when to expect you back.
3. Trust Your Spidey Senses
You know that feeling in your gut that says, “Hmm, this seems sketchy”? Listen to it! If a deal feels too good to be true or the other person is acting strange, it’s okay to walk away. No deal is worth your safety.
4. Don’t Share Too Much
Keep your private info, well… private. There’s no need to give out your full name, address, or where you work. Stick to first names and avoid sharing anything that could be used to find you later.
For email, it’s smart to use Craigslist’s anonymous email relay system. This hides your real email and keeps your inbox spam-free too.
5. Cash is King (But Be Smart)
Cash only is a common rule on Craigslist, and it’s usually the safest option. But it’s also important to be careful with cash deals:
- Never carry large amounts of money to a meeting place.
- Check the bills! Counterfeit money is a thing.
- If you’re selling, bring a counterfeit pen or just meet inside a store where you can check the bills together.
Using a payment app? Make sure the money has cleared. Don’t trust screenshots of payment confirmations—they can be faked!
6. Don’t Invite Strangers to Your Home
Try to avoid home pickups or drop-offs. If you’re selling something big like furniture, see if you can meet outside or in a public driveway with neighbors nearby.
If someone must come over, have a friend or family member with you and let others know what’s happening. Also, keep your doors locked and valuables out of sight.
7. Take Clear Photos and Write Honest Descriptions
If you’re selling something, honesty is your best friend. Show real photos (not stock images) and mention dents, scratches, or missing parts. Buyers will appreciate it, and you’ll avoid awkward surprises during meetups.
And hey, if you’re buying something, don’t be afraid to ask for more photos or a video. It helps you avoid wasting time or money on junk.
8. Don’t Fall for Scams
Scammers are sneaky. Watch out for these common tricks:
- Buyers who “accidentally” overpay and ask for a refund—usually with a fake check.
- Sellers who push you to pay through wire transfers or gift cards.
- People who say they’re “out of town” and will ship the item later.
If anything sounds fishy, walk away. Block and report the scammer to Craigslist.
9. Check the Item Before You Buy
Inspect everything before handing over your cash. Turn it on. Plug it in. Sit on it. Try it out!
If it doesn’t work or looks different than the listing, you are totally allowed to say “no thanks.” You’re not being rude; you’re being smart.
10. Think Twice About High-Risk Items
Certain items carry more risk. For example:
- Buying cellphones (make sure they’re not stolen or locked).
- Selling high-value electronics or jewelry.
- Vehicles (run a Carfax report or meet at the DMV).
For these kinds of things, you might want to meet at a bank or police station to finalize the deal safely.
11. Leave a Digital Trail
If it’s a big purchase or sale, it helps to have some kind of written record. Keep your messages with the buyer or seller. Screenshot them just in case.
You can also ask for basic ID verification for high-value stuff. You don’t need their driver’s license number, just a name you can confirm matches online or in person.
12. If It Goes Wrong, Report It
If someone scams you, acts aggressively, or gives off serious creeper vibes, report it to Craigslist—and possibly the police. This helps protect other users too.
There’s a “flag” button on every listing. Use it if something seems off.
Bonus Tip: Use Common Sense (and a Little Humor)
The truth is, most Craigslist deals go just fine. But it’s always wise to stay alert.
If someone says they’ll pay you triple your asking price if you meet them in an alley with no cell signal… yeah, don’t do that.
Stay safe, laugh it off, and happy buying and selling!
Final Thoughts
Craigslist can be a goldmine for cool deals and cash-making opportunities. But it’s not a game of luck—it’s about being smart, careful, and ready for anything.
Remember the golden rules: meet in public, bring a buddy, trust your gut, and don’t overshare.
Now go grab that vintage lamp or sell that snowboard that’s been collecting dust. Just be smart and stay safe out there!
Published on January 21, 2026 under .
