Personal Safety and Scam Prevention Tips

ListOnline.com.au is a free platform. We do not handle transactions or payments. Your safety is important, so please follow these common-sense rules to avoid scammers.

1. The Golden Rule: Deal Locally and In-Person

Dealing locally is your best defense against 99% of all scams.

• Meet Face-to-Face: Always try to meet the seller or buyer in person, especially for high-value items or property.
• Inspect Before Purchase: NEVER rent, buy housing, or purchase expensive items without first inspecting the property or item in person.
• Trust Your Instincts: Scammers often use a “warm, friendly approach.” Insist on meeting the seller or buyer’s requested terms (like inspecting the item) before completing any purchase.

2. Payment Security: Avoid Wire Transfers and Fake Checks

Scammers rely on methods that are untraceable or reversible only after a long delay.

• AVOID Wire Transfers: NEVER wire money using services like Western Union, MoneyGram, or similar wire transfers. Anyone who asks you to pay this way is a scammer.
• Beware of Fake Checks: FAKE cashier’s checks and money orders are common. Even if your bank initially credits your account, you will be responsible when the fraudulent transaction is discovered weeks later.
• Use Protected Payment Methods: While ListOnline does not handle payments, we recommend using reputable services like PayPal for transactions, as they often offer buyer or seller protection services.

3. Protect Your Personal Information

Be extremely cautious about sharing sensitive data.

• NEVER send or share personal financial details, including your:
  • Bank details or account numbers.
  • PayPal login or sensitive information.
• AVOID Escrow Services: Nearly all unsolicited third-party “Escrow Services” are scams (guaranteed 99% of the time). Only use accredited, official escrow services recommended by a recognized financial or legal institution, and only if absolutely necessary for a high-value transaction.