Most scam attempts involve one or more of the following:

• An email or text from someone that is not in your local area.
• A vague initial inquiry (Example:  asking about "the item").
• Poor grammar and spelling.
• A transfer of money through Western Union, Money Gram, Cashier's Check, Money Order, PayPal, iTunes, purchasing a gift card or an escrow service.
• You are sent a cashier's check or money order and are asked to keep part of the funds and wire a partial amount of the funds back to them.
• You are not able to meet with the person face-to-face to complete the transaction.

• Deal locally and face-to-face
• Never give out your financial information (bank account numbers, social security number, online banking credentials, PayPal account information, etc...)
• Beware of offers involving shipping
• Don't wire funds to someone asking you to wire a partial amount of the money they paid you thru a check.