Protect yourself from online scams
 

Talk of the Villages works diligently to prevent scammers from accessing the site. However, like everywhere online, scammers can slip through and attempt to take advantage of users. Here are some important signs of scammers to remember to ensure your online information remains safe.

• Never feel pressured to give information (such as your credit card number or account password) over the phone, especially if the call was unexpected.Scammers may try to use calls, texts, and emails to make you believe they are an interested buyer. If you're ever unsure, it's safest to end the conversation and reach out directly to our staff via the contact us page.
  
  The payment method is not secure. Think about how they’re asking you to pay. Scammers often ask you to pay by non-secure payment methods, such as gift cards, Venmo or Zelle. It’s rare to recover money sent this way. Always look for secure payment options such as PayPal or credit card.
  
  
• Be wary of false urgency. Scammers may try to create a sense of urgency to persuade you to do what they're asking. Be wary any time someone tries to convince you that you must act now.
  
  
• The pricing seems too good to be true. Stick with your gut instinct. The price might be enticing, but remember that scams often present offers that really are too good to be true.
  
  
• The ask for a deposit. Some scammers will try to convince you that you need to send in a deposit to hold an item. This allows them to get extra money from you that you will never see again.

Talk of The Villages only accepts items for sale from residents inside The Villages and items that can be bought and sold inside The Villages. We are the ONLY website that does this. It is for the protection of our users.