Your local marketplace in Edinburgh

Always meet in a safe, public place. Let a friend or family member know where you're going and when you expect to be back. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; consider using a bank transfer or secure online payment method if possible. Trust your instincts – if something feels wrong, leave.

Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Never send money upfront, especially via methods like Western Union or MoneyGram. Check the seller's profile and look for any red flags, such as a recently created account or inconsistent information. Report any suspicious activity to Gumtree and the police.

Gumtree is primarily a platform for private sales, so buyer protection is limited. 'Caveat emptor' (buyer beware) applies. Inspect items thoroughly before purchasing. If buying from a business seller, you may have more rights under consumer protection laws, such as the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

Report the listing immediately to Gumtree. Provide as much detail as possible about the content you're reporting. You can also report illegal activity to the police.

Be cautious of landlords asking for large upfront deposits before you've seen the property. Verify the landlord's identity and ownership of the property. Never send money to someone you haven't met in person, and always get a written tenancy agreement.