The Fraud Codex

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Is Craigslist a Scam?

craigslist.orgProceed with Caution
Risk Assessment
55%Risk Score
High Risk

Summary

Craigslist is a legitimate classified ads platform operating since 1995. While the platform itself is real, it has virtually no buyer/seller protection and is notorious for scams.

Craigslist is legitimate but has ZERO protection. It's essentially the Wild West of online marketplaces. Every transaction is at your own risk.

Company Information

Parent Company
Craigslist Inc.
Founded
1995
Headquarters
San Francisco, CA
Stock
Private
Employees
50+

Trust Indicators

  • Operating since 1995 (29+ years)[source]
  • One of most visited websites globally[source]
  • Free to use for most categories[source]

Concerns

  • NO buyer or seller protectionhigh[source]
  • Extremely common target for scamshigh[source]
  • Fake check and overpayment scams prevalenthigh[source]
  • Romance and rental scams commonhigh[source]
BBB Rating
NR
Trustpilot
1.3/5

💡 Recommendations

  • 1.NEVER wire money or send gift cards
  • 2.Meet in public for ALL transactions
  • 3.Cash only - no checks, no payment apps to strangers
  • 4.If renting, verify ownership before paying deposits
  • 5.Assume every "too good to be true" deal is a scam

📚 Sources

Craigslist Fact SheetCraigslist Scam WarningFBI Internet FraudFTC Fake Check ScamsIC3 Rental Scams
Last updated: 2026-01-22

Disclaimer: This analysis is for informational purposes only. Information may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Our assessments should not be the sole basis for financial, legal, or personal decisions. Always conduct your own research and due diligence.