If you are looking for a new place to rent, the Federal Trade Commission warns you need to watch for rental scams.

While you’re spring cleaning, you’re likely finding some things you want to get rid of. But before you post it online to sell on places like Facebook Marketplace, or you see something you want to buy yourself, there are a few reminders.

Sure, they can be convenient places to find great deals, but as Consumer Reports explains, there are some safety steps you need to take before you meet up to finalize an online sale.

The good news: there are some simple steps you can take before you hand over any money to make sure you aren’t being scammed.

A warning to anyone who purchases items through sites like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist; be careful and be safe when meeting up with a stranger you are buying or selling an item.

Federal safety regulators are urging consumers to stop using baby pillows that have been linked to 10 infant deaths but are still being sold on Facebook Marketplace, despite being recalled two years ago.

The amount consumers have lost to all types of social media fraud grows every year. In 2021 alone it was $770 million. But no matter how sophisticated scammers are, there are ways to protect yourself.

Take a look around. Did you purchase more stuff than you need during the COVID quarantine?

Anything can be sold online, and it doesn’t always have to be done by a major retailer. A new eBay survey reveals that the average American household has about 50 unused items around the house, worth more than $3. With platforms like eBay, Poshmark, and Craigslist it’s easier than ever to sell your stuff. There’s a right way and a wrong way to do it online. Be honest, and you’ll end up getting the most cash for your trash.

That’s the message from every major retailer if you’re looking for the brand new PlayStation 5. Some lifelong gamers, like Erick Koblick, aren’t willing to fork over that kind of money. “It’s a way of life.”For those who are willing to shell out extra dough for the gaming console now, there’s still risk involved. He doesn’t recommend buying a big-ticket item like the PlayStation 5 from a reseller unless you can meet them in person for the transaction. If you do plan on meeting up with a reseller, make sure to do in a public place.

For anyone looking to make some extra money or replenish that pocketbook, have you considered selling your old items online? Even if they’re in used condition and you’re selling them as such, you’ll still want to make them look attractive to potential buyers. If you’re selling clothes, include a shot of what the item looks like on. And if you’re selling kids stuff, upload a photo of your kids actually in the clothes (again, blur faces if you’re worried about privacy!) If you’re selling a dresser, for example, be prepared to provide all dimensions, weight, info about moving it, etc.