Craigslist vs Facebook Marketplace: Different Scams, Same Tactics

Published on April 28, 2025 by SureBuy.io Team

At first glance, Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace might feel like two very different platforms. One is bare-bones and anonymous; the other is social and tied to real profiles. But when it comes to scams, the same shady tactics show up again and again — and if you're not careful, you could fall for one on either site.

1. Common Scams That Appear on Both Platforms

Whether you're buying a used phone or selling a couch, the core scam tactics don’t change much:

• Overpayment scams: Buyer sends “too much” and asks you to refund the difference — using fake checks or fraudulently obtained funds
• Off-platform payment requests: Scammers try to move you to Zelle, Venmo, or gift cards to avoid protections
• Fake shipping or delivery claims: Especially common with larger items or vehicles — often involving fake shipping receipts
• Phishing links: Buyer/seller sends a fake link to "verify identity" or "secure payment" — stealing your info

2. Key Differences Between Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace

Understanding each platform’s layout and risks can help you spot shady behavior faster:

• Craigslist: Fully anonymous, minimal design, no profiles, no official buyer protection
• Facebook Marketplace: Tied to user profiles, includes ratings, chat via Messenger — but still no guarantees

Scammers know how to exploit both. On Facebook, they may create fake accounts with profile photos. On Craigslist, they thrive on the platform's lack of verification.

3. How SureBuy.io Can Help

SureBuy.io helps you analyze the text from any listing on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace — even if there are no obvious red flags. Our tool uses AI to:

• Detect scam phrases and manipulation tactics
• Compare pricing against live market data
• Suggest follow-up questions to verify legitimacy

You simply paste the listing description, and SureBuy.io gives you an instant safety score and estimated price range. It works across platforms, making it ideal for side-by-side analysis.

4. Red Flags Unique to Each Platform

Here’s what to watch out for that’s specific to each site:

• Craigslist: Listings without photos, urgent buyers, emails asking you to “verify your identity”
• Facebook Marketplace: Sellers with new or no-profile accounts, generic product listings spammed across multiple groups, or “available?” responses followed by sketchy links

5. Our Final Advice

Never assume one platform is safer than another. The scams are the same — only the wrapping is different.

Protect yourself by sticking to in-platform communication, avoiding off-platform payments, and analyzing every listing you’re unsure about with SureBuy.io.

Ready to stay one step ahead of scammers? Try SureBuy.io now.