CS2 Trading ScamsHow to Stay Safe
Protect your CS2 inventory from scammers. Learn to identify common scam tactics and trade safely.
Remember: Steam Support will NEVER ask for your items, password, or API key. Anyone claiming to be from Valve asking for these is a scammer.
Common CS2 Trading Scams
Know these tactics to protect yourself.
Phishing Links
Fake websites that look like Steam, Buff, or other sites to steal your login credentials.
Warning: Always check the URL carefully. Bookmark real sites.
Impersonation
Scammers impersonate Steam admins, friends, or famous traders to gain trust.
Warning: Valve employees never ask for items or passwords.
Item Switching
Swapping valuable items for worthless ones with similar names/icons in trade window.
Warning: Always verify each item before accepting trades.
API Key Scam
Tricking you into revealing your Steam API key, letting scammers intercept trades.
Warning: Never share your API key. Revoke it if compromised.
Middleman Scam
Fake "middleman" services that steal items during supposed safe trades.
Warning: Use only official marketplace escrow systems.
Payment Reversal
Paying with reversible methods (PayPal, chargeback) then reversing after receiving items.
Warning: Use non-reversible payments or marketplace escrow.
Safety Checklist
If You've Been Scammed
Secure Your Account
Change your password immediately. Revoke your Steam API key. Deauthorize all devices.
Report to Steam
File a report through Steam Support. Include all evidence, screenshots, and chat logs.
Report the Scammer
Report their Steam profile. This helps protect other users even if you can't recover items.
Learn From It
Unfortunately, stolen items are rarely recovered. Use this experience to trade more safely in the future.
Trade Safer with SteamLedger
Our trade protection features warn you about risky items, track ownership history, and help you avoid scams.
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