Never send payment blindly — always verify the seller. If possible, meet in person and inspect the item. If using shipping, get a tracking number and use secure payment options like PayPal Goods & Services. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, or payment apps that don’t offer buyer protection. Be cautious of low prices that seem too good to be true. Watch for red flags like urgent messages, bad grammar, or overseas contacts. Report suspicious behavior or listings right away.