If you’re looking to buy a used iPad in India, follow these guidelines to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.
Buying a new iPad isn’t cheap, so many people opt for a used model. Buying a second-hand iPad from sites like OLX, Quikr, and Facebook Marketplace is perfectly acceptable. However, if you are inexperienced with it, you may fall victim to a hoax. In that scenario, it’s critical to take precautions when looking for a used iPad on the internet. We’ve collected a list of red signs to look for in order to avoid being conned.
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Prices that are shockingly low
A consumer’s main motivation for purchasing a second-hand iPad is to save money. While sites like OLX and Facebook Marketplace can help you save money, there is always a danger. You should probably back out of the sale of the iPad appears to be suspiciously cheap, especially given the debut year. For example, if Apple sells the iPad Air (Gen 4) for Rs 45,000 and the seller charges Rs 15,000 for the same model with no malfunctions or damaged hardware, there is clearly something fishy going on. If the seller persists in chasing you to purchase the iPad, you can block them or submit a complaint.
It’s crucial to know the model number and year of manufacturing, especially if you’re looking to buy a second-hand iPad that’s running the most recent version of iOS.
Examine the circumstances
This may seem obvious, but many individuals (especially when a price is hard to pass up) just avoid inspecting an item in person. Always inspect the iPad for any signs of physical damage. Check the sides of the iPad for cracks and the screen for any cracks. If the screen has a crack on it, even if it is only a small crack from the outside, don’t buy it.
Check to see if the lightning port/Type-C connection isn’t damaged or obstructed by anything. Because you won’t be able to use the iPad if the charging port isn’t working properly. If feasible, plug the iPad into a wall outlet to ensure that the battery is in good working order. If that isn’t possible, at the very least request that the seller fully charge the iPad ahead of time so that you can assess the battery’s health.
In the market, the iPad is available in a variety of screen sizes. So, before going online and looking for a used iPad, do your homework.
Buying an iCloud-locked iPad is a bad idea
On OLX, you can find listings for iPads that are iCloud locked but are available for a ridiculously low price. If you see an Activation Lock screen on your iPad that asks you to enter a specific Apple ID and a password, it means the iPad is iCloud locked. If you discover this later, you should contact the vendor and request that the device be unlocked. If the seller refuses to reveal the passcode, you can safely conclude the iPad has been stolen. If you’re looking to buy a second-hand iPad, be sure it’s not iCloud locked.
Turn on the used iPad if you have the opportunity to examine it in person.
Those who avoid answering the phone
Genuine merchants and purchasers are comfortable speaking on the phone, but scammers may limit communication to text messages. Scammers will most likely ask for the buyer’s bank account information and then send a false text message claiming to have transferred the device. When in doubt, request a phone conversation with a possible seller.
Before purchasing a used iPad, make sure to utilize your common sense.
Sellers across state lines
Be wary of dealers who are based in other states. There have been times when sellers list their products in your city, giving an illusion that they are based locally. They demand that you deposit the money via Paytm and provide your home address after they learn you are interested in purchasing the item. There’s a good chance you’ll never obtain the device. Dealing with a merchant who is local is the greatest option because you may turn to the local police for assistance if necessary.
Having a meeting at someone’s house
Always insist on meeting the vendor with a companion, whether it’s a family member or a friend. Request that the seller meet you in a neutral public location. Avoid going to the seller’s house. Also, do not provide the seller with your home or work address.
Even if the price is modest, do not rush to close the deal. Look around for other possibilities and don’t forget to haggle.
Inquire about product photographs
Before you make a decision and complete the transaction, always get as many images of the iPad in functioning condition as possible from the vendor. Frequently, the seller tries to avoid disclosing the product’s serial number or explicitly mentioning the broken product in the ad. Tell the seller you’re not interested if the iPad’s display, software, or external appearance do not meet your expectations. However, if the seller takes too long to share an iPad picture or photos taken from afar, the deal isn’t worth pursuing.
Keep yourself safe, be aware, and have fun with your iPad!
