Staying safe on KeystoneXchange
Most deals go smoothly. These habits keep it that way.
Meeting in person
- Meet in a public, well-lit place during the day. Many police stations have safe exchange zones.
- Bring someone with you, or tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
- For large items picked up at your home, have someone else present, and keep the item in a garage, driveway, or porch instead of inviting buyers inside.
- Trust your instincts. If something feels off, walk away.
Paying and getting paid
- Cash on pickup is the standard for KeystoneXchange. Inspect the item before you pay.
- KeystoneXchange never handles payment, sends payment links, or sends shipping labels.
- Never pay with gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
- Never accept an overpayment and “refund the difference.” That’s a scam.
Common scams
- Someone who asks for a sign-in code sent to your email. Never share a sign-in code with anyone.
- A buyer who wants to send a courier or “shipper” to pick up the item and pay later.
- Prices far below market value, or pressure to decide right now.
- Someone pushing you to move the conversation to text, email, or another app.
- Messages claiming to be from KeystoneXchange asking you to pay for a transaction or share a password or sign-in code. We will never ask you to share a password or sign-in code. Support may ask for information needed to handle your request; verify the request through the official support conversation or contact@keystonexchange.com before sharing sensitive information.
Animals
- See the animal in person before you buy.
- Ask for health records, vaccination history, and any certificates your state requires.
Vehicles and equipment
- Check the title and make sure the seller’s name matches it.
- Run a VIN history report.
- Have it inspected, or bring someone who knows what to look for.
Food
Check that prepared foods, canned goods, and raw milk show the permit your state requires, and that meat comes from an inspected facility or is clearly described as a share.
Report problems
Use the Report button on any listing, profile, conversation, or review. A person reviews every report, including fraud and safety reports on Sundays.
If you’re in danger, call 911 first.