PayPal Friends & Family listings. Why is this becoming so common?

I just ignore anyone who insists on F&F.

BTW, PayPal protection is worthless!

Years ago, I purchased two cables for $900 from a buyer with 100% positive feedback. I never received the cables. Since USPS Priority Mail uses geotracking, the local Postmaster confirmed that the package was time-stamped and delivered to my home. It probably was stolen off my front porch.

Paypal Protection requires that purchases with a value over $750 to have shipping insurance. The buyer wanted to save $3.95 and didn’t get the insurance. Paypal issued a full refund to me within 24 hours of my claim.  The seller lost $900.

- - - -

Whenever I sell an item via Paypal F&F, I always include Signature Confirmation Required - as well as shipping insurance. It’s worth $10 to me for peace of mind.

Cash and local pickup only. I’ve had people drive hundreds and over 1000 miles to pickup the item, even when I had the original boxes.
When I have sold items overseas, there is no signature required option after it leaves the states, so I demanded that the money be sent to me and clears before I ship the product.
 I used to sell with F&F thinking it was safer/less hackable but it isn’t.

+1 freediver

lalitk

I am curious, all those opposing F&F option, would you be willing to pay PayPal fee?

Probably, although the preference for F&F would be a red flag for me. But I may not be typical because I don't often buy used equipment.