Misleading practices involving the exchange of contact information on the social media platform’s buying and selling section have emerged as a concerning trend. Individuals with malicious intent often request a potential buyer or seller’s telephone number under various pretenses. These tactics often begin with an inquiry about an item’s availability or condition, followed by a request to continue the conversation off-platform, frequently citing poor internet connectivity or preference for direct communication. For example, a seller might receive a message stating, “Is this item still for sale? Text me at [phone number] because I’m having trouble with Messenger.”
The exchange of numbers presents a significant risk due to the potential for identity theft, phishing attempts, and other forms of fraud. Providing personal contact details outside of the secure platform environment bypasses the built-in security measures designed to protect users. Historically, criminals have used obtained phone numbers to initiate robocalls, send deceptive text messages designed to harvest sensitive information, or even impersonate the victim to gain access to other accounts. Mitigation strategies for users include using alternate contact details or maintaining all communication within the marketplace.
