Etsy protects every transaction you complete on our platform. But some bad actors may try to move your purchase off Etsy to avoid those safeguards, leaving you vulnerable to fraud and unable to be protected through Etsy’s Purchase Protection Program. Here's how to spot the signs and stay safe.
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Never share your contact information
If a seller asks you to complete a transaction via text, email, WhatsApp, or any other channel outside of Etsy Messages, don't engage. Legitimate sellers don't need to take your conversation off Etsy to complete a sale.
Don't scan QR codes
We don't allow sellers to use QR codes to direct buyers off Etsy. If you see a QR code in any Etsy surface including in a listing, Convo, or shop UI that asks you to scan it to complete a purchase off platform or get a deal, don't scan it.
Watch for links taking you off Etsy
Sellers are allowed to share links to their own websites and social media. But if you click a link and leave Etsy, you're no longer covered by our purchase protections. Always make sure you're completing your purchase on Etsy before entering any payment information.
Only pay through Etsy checkout
The only ways to pay for an Etsy order are through Etsy checkout or through our approved Square integration for in-person purchases. If a seller asks you to pay via Venmo, PayPal, cash, cryptocurrency, or any other method, don't proceed. This is a violation of our policies and can be a common sign of fraud.
Report suspicious behavior
If a seller asks you to take your transaction off Etsy, report it to us. Reporting helps us keep the marketplace safe for everyone.