Hello, how can we help you?

Requests to watch for

"Can you send me your email address?"

Nothing about buying, paying, or confirming an order on Reverb requires your email address. If a buyer says the checkout process needs it, that’s a scam.

This is the most common way seller scams start. Once someone has your email, they can send fake "Reverb" messages that we can't see or flag. See examples of what these look like.

The same goes for requests to text photos, email a video, or call a phone number. If a buyer says they can't see your listing photos, ask them to try again on Reverb. Learn how to send photos and videos through Reverb messages.

If you’re selling software or a licence, you may need to exchange an email address to complete the transfer. Wait until payment has cleared, exchange it through Reverb messages, and keep the rest of the conversation on Reverb.

"Can you ship to a different address?"

Only dispatch to the delivery address on the order. If a buyer needs to are delivered to a different address, refund the order and ask them to place it again with the correct address. A sale is only covered by Reverb Seller Protection if the package matches the order, so dispatching somewhere else leaves you unprotected even when the buyer is genuine.

Be especially careful if the request arrives by email rather than through Reverb messaging, or if it comes with a story about the buyer's account being compromised. That's a known scam pattern.

"Let's talk over text instead."

Keep all communication on Reverb for the entire transaction. That way you can report a suspicious message and our team can step in. You shouldn’t need to supply personal contact information via messages or outside of the site. Any information that’s needed is provided by Reverb. Learn why scammers want you off Reverb.

"I'll just pay you directly."

Buyers should always pay through Reverb. If someone offers to pay you any other way, even at a better price without fees, decline and report the message. Paying outside Reverb voids all buyer and seller protection.

Reverb does not support bank or wire transfers for orders.

Before you meet a local buyer

For a local pickup sale, confirm the payment has cleared and that you've been approved to complete the sale before you meet. You’ll be notified by email and in the Reverb app when it’s time to meet the buyer. 

A screenshot, pending payment, or a promise to pay in person is not proof that you've been paid. If you're not sure whether a payment has cleared, check the order in your account or contact Reverb Support before you go.

Document your item before you list it

This is less about scammers and more about protecting yourself if a buyer opens a dispute after delivery.

• Photograph the details, not just the beauty shots. Wear, scratches, dings, finish checking, hardware, the case, and anything that's been modified or replaced.
• Describe the condition in words, too. Photos can be interpreted, but a clear written description tells buyers exactly what they’re getting. 
• Note what's included and what isn't: Things like the original case, paperwork, pedals, cables, spare parts.

When a buyer reports a problem, the listing is one of the first things we review. A thorough listing helps us resolve the problem faster.

If something feels off

• Report the message. Select Report message in the thread and choose a reason. 
• Don't click any links in messages. This includes QR codes, too. If you click on a link in your messages, you’ll get a notice about how you’re leaving Reverb.com. 
• Contact Reverb Support if you've already shared information, already are delivered a suspicious order, or need help with an order.

Think someone else has access to your account? Follow the steps for a compromised account.

Additional resources