Avoid Getting Scammed When Shopping for Couches On Facebook, Kijiji, Etc.
- Couch Connect
- Feb 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 7
Shopping for a couch on Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji can be a great way to find deals, but it also comes with risks. Scammers are out there, and we want to help you stay protected. Here are some key red flags to watch out for and tips to keep your money safe.
Signs of a Scam
New or Suspicious Profiles – If the seller’s profile is brand new, has little to no activity, or lacks a profile picture, it could be a red flag. Scammers often create fresh accounts to avoid detection. Check their reviews—if they have none or all their reviews were posted around the same time, they could be fake.
Requests for Upfront Payments – Never send money via e-transfer, PayPal, or gift cards before seeing the item. Scammers will often disappear once they’ve received payment.
Stock, Blurry, or Generic Photos – If the listing only contains professional-looking stock images, blurry photos, it could be fake. Always request additional pictures or a video if unsure.
How to Protect Yourself
Verify the Seller's Reviews and Activity – Look at the seller’s profile and reviews. If they have no reviews, or all the reviews were posted at the same time, they might be fake.
Inspect Before You Pay – Don’t feel pressured or rushed and check the couch thoroughly for damage, stains, or signs of bedbugs before handing over any cash. If the couch is wrapped in plastic or fabric, ask to remove it to ensure there are no hidden issues and that it matches the pictures in the listing.
At Couch Connect, we ensure that every couch we sell is thoroughly inspected and professionally cleaned, giving you peace of mind when buying second-hand.