Feb 04, 2026 • ESET WeLiveSecurity
OfferUp scammers are out in force: Here’s what you should know
The mobile marketplace app OfferUp is experiencing an increase in fraudulent activity targeting its growing user base. Scammers are exploiting the platform's...
Executive Summary
The mobile marketplace app OfferUp is experiencing an increase in fraudulent activity targeting its growing user base. Scammers are exploiting the platform's peer-to-peer transaction model to deceive buyers and sellers through various social engineering tactics. Common schemes likely include payment redirection, fake listings, and impersonation. The primary impact falls on individual users who may lose money or personal information. To mitigate risks, users should verify transaction details, avoid off-platform communications, use secure payment methods with buyer/seller protections, and report suspicious activity immediately. Organizations should educate employees who use such platforms about fraud indicators and safe online marketplace practices.
Summary
The mobile marketplace app has a growing number of users, but not all of them are genuine. Watch out for these common scams.
Published Analysis
The mobile marketplace app OfferUp is experiencing an increase in fraudulent activity targeting its growing user base. Scammers are exploiting the platform's peer-to-peer transaction model to deceive buyers and sellers through various social engineering tactics. Common schemes likely include payment redirection, fake listings, and impersonation. The primary impact falls on individual users who may lose money or personal information. To mitigate risks, users should verify transaction details, avoid off-platform communications, use secure payment methods with buyer/seller protections, and report suspicious activity immediately. Organizations should educate employees who use such platforms about fraud indicators and safe online marketplace practices. The mobile marketplace app has a growing number of users, but not all of them are genuine. Watch out for these common scams. The mobile marketplace app has a growing number of users, but not all of them are genuine. Watch out for these common scams.