UT Marketplace

Safety Tips

Your safety matters to us. UT Marketplace is built for the UT community, but it’s still important to take precautions when buying, selling, or meeting others.

  • Meet in safe, public places: Always meet in busy, well-lit public locations on or near campus, like academic buildings, libraries, or cafés. Avoid private residences or isolated areas, especially for first-time exchanges. Some locations we suggest:
    • Perry-Castañeda Library (PCL)
    • Student Union
    • UT Tower Plaza
    • Student Activity Center (WCP)
    • Littlefield Fountain
  • Inspect items before paying: Check that the item matches the listing and works as described before completing payment.
  • Use secure payment methods: Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, or payment requests from strangers. Prefer in-person payment after inspection or trusted platforms.
  • Keep communication on UT Marketplace: Staying within UTMP messages helps maintain a record and reduces scams. Be cautious if someone pushes to move immediately to text or external apps.
  • Watch for common scam signs: Be cautious if someone exhibits suspicious behavior, including but not limited to refusing to meet in person, asking for deposits or shipping fees, offering prices that seem too good to be true, using urgent pressure (“must sell today”), avoiding or refusing to answer basic questions, or requesting payment before you see the item.
  • Trust your instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. You’re never obligated to complete a transaction.
  • Report suspicious behavior: If you encounter scams, harassment, or unsafe situations, report the listing or user through the Contact Us page or by email contact@longhorns.dev so we can take action.