Device Handling During In-Person Sales

Never hand your phone or electronic device to a stranger, regardless of the reason they give. A known tactic used by criminals is to pose as a genuine buyer, ask to “test” the device or make a quick call, and then hand back a folded piece of paper or worthless item before fleeing. The swap happens in seconds and relies entirely on your trust and momentary inattention. This has occurred in busy, public settings including malls — where the crowded environment actually works in the criminal’s favor, providing a fast escape route. The moment your device leaves your hand, you have lost control of the transaction.

Steps to follow:

• Never allow a potential buyer to hold or operate your device unsupervised — demonstrate features yourself while keeping the phone in your grip.
• If someone asks to make a call on your device, decline and offer to dial the number yourself on speaker.
• Before any cash-for-item exchange, physically verify what you are receiving — do not accept a folded envelope or paper until you have inspected it thoroughly.
• Conduct in-person device sales with a companion present who can observe the interaction from a short distance.
• If a “buyer” becomes pushy about handling the device or creates any urgency, walk away — legitimate buyers respect boundaries.