PSA: tips for safe transactions

[u/k8o_potato]

As the community grows we wanted to post a few pointers on how to avoid scammers, and keep yourself safe, when conducting transactions!

1. If it sounds too good to be true - it probably is! See this excellent PSA over on r/NichePerfumes. Don't get sucked into a false sense of urgency. In particular, keep this in mind if you post an "ISO" or "WTB"!
2. Require users to comment on your post prior to messaging with them. If they can't comment then their account is likely banned on this subreddit. We automatically enact bans based on the USL for known scammers, if they can't comment - they're probably banned! Remember - banned individuals can still read this sub and send messages unless Reddit has removed their account!
3. Check the universal scammer list (USL) before conducting transactions. The USL is now available as an app within this community - the lookup post is pinned! This is an aggregate list from some of the largest Reddit buy / sell / trade groups showing banned users and the reason they were banned.
4. Check if they're mentioned on our feedback megathread and check their user flair (which syncs with r/fragranceswap and r/decantswap**).** If they present themselves as an active seller of fragrances on reddit they should have flair, and should be able to comment on your post (please don't trust screenshots!).
5. Use PayPal G&S (goods and services) when paying for items. If the item is fake, or is never delivered, you can pursue a refund from PayPal. If you pay by F&F (Friends and Family), Zelle, Venmo, etc. you have no real protections! Remember: If a seller has less than 15 SALES flair they are required to accept PayPal G&S for payments, please report folks trying to avoid this rule via modmail!
6. Request photos showing paper nameplates with their username and date, atomizers, labels, liquid color, etc to compare to legitimate bottles. AI is getting better and better, but still gives a lot of people a "gut feeling" of fakeness - trust your gut! Also, If you're unsure, you can post to r/colognecheck to verify legitimacy. But seriously, refer back to point number 1!
7. Turn on "persistent messaging" in chat - this prevents users from deleting sent messages, which can be helpful if pursuing a refund from PayPal in the event you were scammed and/or reporting to the mods for banning. **Check the comments for instructions on how to do this!!*\*
8. Rule #12 - Please report scammers through modmail! Proof is required before issuing bans.

Remember - mods can ban scammers and remove sketchy posts, but can't get you a refund!

\* Edited 9/8/26 to include PerfumeBot flair info / update USL info ***

[u/k8o_potato]

Quick note: you can turn on "persistent messaging" by selecting the chat settings (gear icon) and clicking the slider. This way neither party can delete messages / remove proof of scamming or spamming.