Equipment Exchange

Everyone knows that there has been a recent rash of incidents with scammers and huge increase in membership due to the election and other recent publicity.  You can still do things how you want but here are my suggestions.
First, if you are validating arfcom members with their information/feedback from other sites you need to do so by sending an IM.  DO NOT POST IN THEIR AD.  If they say they can't remember their login info then move on.  If they give you any excuses then move on.  Don't be ignorant or stupid enough to be used as a patsy.
Again, DO NOT POST IN THEIR AD FOR VALIDATION.  SEND AN IM.
Second, ask for validated information.  If you're dealing with a newer member then you need to do some research.  If you're a new member and aren't willing to give information then that's on you.  If they can't provide information that matches their profile then move on.  Google is your friend and you need to learn how to use it.
Third, use validated payment systems that offer you protection.  If you use Zelle you're SOL.  If you use PayPal Friends and Family because you're cheap or you're "sticking it to the anti-gunners" you're SOL.  If you use PayPal Good and Services and it's for a restricted item, then you can be SOL and have you're account locked.  If sending paper payment such as USPS money order or a personal check you need to verify the information and make sure it makes "sense".  Again, Google is your friend.
Forth is ad stomping.  If you post anything derogatory in a new members account because you have a "feeling" you will be warned for an ad stomp and most likely get a temporary ban.  Report the ad. When a report is sent up all of the EE mods and staff can see it.  It gives us a better chance of getting ahead of the situation than you posting "NJGUNS ????" and no one seeing it.  And when you post suspicions all that you're doing is allowing the dividing of the sites membership.
Finally, stop playing in the instant gratification realm.  Yes, there are rare and discontinued items out there that people want.  But don't jump on that deal just because it's that important to you.  Difference between needs and wants.
We do everything we can to protect buyers and sellers here but at the end of the day it's on you if you don't do your due diligence.

Thank you sir