http://i60.tinypic.com/mhsfhw.png The person doesn't want to send payment as a gift:
This is not necessarily a definite warning sign of a scammer, but usually anyone concerned with sending as an Instant Payment will either do one of two things: 1). act out of fear (which you don't want because this may lead to regrets or doubts), or 2) refuse to trade with you because you requested them send it as a gift and this can mean a many number of things as well. Sometimes people see "gift" as a sign of scamming. So, your request for this may be falsely interpreted. Just keep an open dialog and never force your hand.
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Warning! Get them verified. If they refuse, move on. Do not trade with unverified PayPal members, no matter what. To verify their account completely means they must confirm their bank account information and at least one credit card or debit card. PayPal requires real information from the person in order to verify their account. A verified member is less likely to be a scammer. Unverified members may hold brand new accounts, and this should definitely be of concern.
Warning! This is quite obvious. Do not let them take advantage of your desperation. I've seen so many good people desperate to make a sale or purchase and end up manipulated by some new member whom turns out to be a scammer. Notice I mention a "sales" reputation because it's easy to buy something. It's not as easy to sell something and keep your end of a deal, especially when it comes to characters, that require 31 days of waiting.
Warning! Do not fall for the, "I'm busy.", "Sorry, wasn't at home.", or plain ignoring of messages bullshit anyone may pull on you, particularly if they have no trade history or reputation on the forum. This doesn't mean they're scammers but a lot can be learned about a person when you consider their behavior. A person that wants to trade will make the time to trade, just like a girl you ask out will make the time to go out with you, even if she's currently busy. :cool: Of course, there's always the possibility someone may actually be busy. But if they are interested, they will set a time to talk.
Warning! For the love of God, do not trade with anyone that is acting suspicious or rushing the trade, especially if they do not have a solid reputation. I've seen so many people be scammed by others because they were manipulated into thinking they had to go or they'd lose out on the deal. THERE WILL ALWAYS BE ANOTHER DEAL! DO NOT RUSH YOUR TRADES! Take the time to consider the situation and make the best decision.
Warning! This is another obvious one, especially if they do not have a trade history to uphold their claim of being trustworthy. I recently avoided a trade because I did not want to pay for a middle man. Does that make me a scammer? No, of course not. But I have a pristine trade history. If someone does not agree to a trustworthy middle man, do not trade with them. Also, NEVER allow them to choose the middle man alone. Choose one together. If they do not agree with those terms, simply end the conversation and move on. Leave them with the option of collaboratively deciding on a middle man and say your goodbyes. It's not worth the risk.
Warning! If they won't use any other payment methods, and also do not have a trade history, you should probably avoid trading with them. This does not mean they are always scammers, but it does mean they are not willing to negotiate and work with you. All parties involved in a trade (of any kind) should mutually benefit from said trade. You will always find another person to trade with. It's definitely worth waiting for the right person.
