The new PlayStation® 5 and Xbox® Series X consoles are two of the hottest video game products on the market. Unfortunately, this means many gamers are turning to private buyers and falling victim to scams as manufacturers struggle to meet demand. This is a costly mistake, which is why tech support professionals warn that it's crucial to recognize suspicious listings. To avoid fraudulent ads, follow these steps when shopping.

How to Identify a Fake PS5 or Xbox Listing

1. Consider the Price

Because of the shortage, scalpers are selling these consoles for double and even triple their market prices. As such, if a great deal falls into your lap, ask yourself if it's too good to be true. These consoles are rare items at the moment, so compare the offer with the prices reputable retailers are charging for pre-orders. Anything out of the ordinary may be the first sign of a scam.

2. Investigate Affiliations

Take every measure to know who you're buying from. First, search their username, company name, or the seller's name along with "scam" to see if they've been reported before. If they claim to represent a retailer, call the retailer to confirm. Also, check their reviews and history on marketplaces, such as eBay. While this information can boost your confidence, your best option is to always buy through an accredited retailer.

3. Research Contact Info

Ask all sellers for contact information, whether they're private or a retailer. They should be happy to provide a customer support phone number or tech support so you can discuss the purchase with a representative. Be wary of sellers that only list an email, as anyone can create a fake email address and you'll never really know who you're talking to.

Also, carefully look at email addresses. Scammers often create emails that are almost identical to retailers except for one letter, such as AmazonSupporrt or GamestopCustemerService. It's easy to overlook this at a glance, so be sure to double-check.

If you’re searching for tech support in the Parkville, Baltimore, and Greater D.C. area of Maryland, contact SysQuick. These professionals provide a wide scope of IT services, including game system repair. Learn about all of their offerings on their website, and discover more updates and advice on their Facebook page. You can also reach a tech support professional today by calling (443) 231-5627.