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How to Reply to Craigslist Emails
Stay safe when selling goods or making purchases
By Karen Marcus Karen Marcus Writer University of Colorado at Denver Colorado State University Karen Marcus is a former Lifewire writer who has also written for companies like HP, Intel, IBM, Samsung, and others. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on May 17, 2021 Reviewed by Ryan Perian Reviewed by Ryan Perian Western Governors University Ryan Perian is a certified IT specialist who holds numerous IT certifications and has 12+ years' experience working in the IT industry support and management positions. lifewire's editorial guidelines Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email In This Article
Expand Jump to a Section How Contacting Works How to Email on Craigslist The Proxy Email Address Use an Alternate Email More Personal Security Tips When you use Craigslist to sell or purchase something, you communicate by sending an email to the other person in the transaction. To protect buyer and seller privacy, Craigslist keeps email addresses hidden. However, even with this security system, you might want to take additional precautions when responding to emails from Craigslist. How Contacting Someone on Craigslist Works
Craigslist provides a "cover" email address that is forwarded to the recipient's actual email address. Only Craigslist knows the real email addresses of both parties. This way, if one of the people involved turns out to be untrustworthy, they don't have the other person's email address. When buying or selling items on Craigslist, you communicate through the website, using this two-way email relay. How to Email Someone on Craigslist
When you reply to a post (that is, someone has something for sale that you want to buy), you’ll see an address that looks like: abcde-0123456789@sale.craigslist.org. Craigslist gives you the option of copying and pasting this email address into an email application that you will open on your own, or you can click one of the provided links to automatically open your email account. Proxy Email Address
When you receive an email in response to an ad you posted, you’ll see an address that looks like: rcc9la26d76a03514c34f9200@reply.craigslist.org. Although the sender used their real email account to contact you, the proxy email address hides their real email address. When posting an ad, always use the Craigslist proxy email address. Additionally, use only your first name in the Contact Name field. Protect Your Privacy With an Alternate Email Address
When you communicate using the proxy email address, your real name still shows up, as does signature data, such as your company name and phone number. If you're concerned about your privacy, consider using a free alternate email address specifically for purchases. More Security Tips
Part of the reason Craigslist uses the proxy email system is to prevent scams and the distribution of your private information. But it can only do so much. Do your part by not clicking links within any email you receive unless you trust the sender. Scammers can doctor emails to look like they’re from a particular sender, such as Craigslist—so when in doubt, always contact the sender through Craigslist to verify. Additionally, once you’re in contact with a buyer or seller, you may want to exchange mobile numbers to make the transaction easier. While the majority of Craigslist users are trustworthy, go with your instincts before offering your mobile number. Also, remember to use personal security habits like meeting in a neutral, public location, such as a coffee shop or grocery store parking lot. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Buy and Sell Safely on Craigslist How to Reply to an Email in Yahoo Mail How to Specify a Reply-To Address in Outlook.com How to Change the Email Sender Name in Microsoft Outlook 10 Best Free Email Accounts for 2022 How Craigslist Works The 5 Best Secure Email Services for 2022 How to Permanently Delete Your Yahoo Mail Account How to Browse the Web Anonymously What Is an Example of Spam Email? 5 Things to Consider When Buying a Used iPad How to Create a New Outlook.com Email Account How to Save Contact Information From an iPhone Email How to Find an Email Address Online How to Sell Used Stereos Online 9 Best Ways to Hide Your Identity Online Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies