How to Tell If a Facebook Marketplace Seller Is Legit

Published on May 13, 2025 by SureBuy.io Team

When you find a good-looking deal on Facebook Marketplace, your first question should be: Is this seller legit? Scammers can easily create fake listings and convincing profiles — so knowing how to evaluate a seller before you message them is key to staying safe.

Here are the top signs that a Facebook Marketplace seller is trustworthy — and the red flags to avoid.

1. Check the Seller’s Facebook Profile

Click on the seller’s name to view their profile. Legit sellers typically have:

• A profile photo that looks real (not a stock photo or blank image)
• Visible friend list and normal activity (likes, comments, posts)
• A profile that’s more than a few weeks old

Be wary of accounts with no activity, few or no friends, or recently created profiles — these are common signs of fake sellers.

2. Look for Real Photos (Not Stock Images)

If the item photos look like they were pulled from Google or a catalog, that’s a red flag. Legit sellers usually take photos with:

• Visible background (home, garage, etc.)
• Multiple angles and lighting
• Close-ups of labels or details

Use Google’s reverse image search if you’re suspicious — scammers often reuse images from the web.

3. Evaluate the Listing Description

A legit seller usually provides enough detail to answer basic questions. Look for:

• Condition of the item
• What’s included (accessories, packaging)
• Any known issues or damage

Vague descriptions like “great condition” with no other info can be a red flag — especially for high-value items.

4. Pay Attention to Communication

When you message the seller, note how they respond. Trustworthy sellers usually:

• Respond quickly and clearly
• Are open to questions
• Don’t pressure you to pay right away or meet in sketchy locations

If they dodge questions or insist on a rushed deal, walk away.

5. Use SureBuy.io for a Trust Check

SureBuy.io helps you double-check listings before you commit. Just paste in the item’s title, description, and price — and we’ll scan it for red flags, sketchy phrasing, and scam-like behavior patterns.

It’s fast, free, and could save you from getting burned.

Bottom Line: Do a Quick Seller Check Before You Buy

Even if the item looks perfect, a shady seller can ruin the deal. Take a few seconds to review their profile, photos, and responses. When in doubt, scan the listing with SureBuy.io — and trust your gut.

---

Also read: How to Check If a Marketplace Item Is Overpriced