Is Depop Legit? Get to Know if This App is Safe

Yes, Depop is safe! It has exploded in popularity for vintage fashion, designer, streetwear, and unique finds.

The app, owned by Etsy, has millions of active users, and has been a trusted name in resale since 2011. It has become especially popular among Gen Z, who love it for its social shopping style, vintage fashion, and focus on sustainability.

Still, many people pause before making their first purchase or sale because they wonder if Depop is truly safe and trustworthy. In this post, we’ll explore how Depop works, what protections are available for buyers and sellers, what common scams to watch for, and whether Depop is worth using overall.

🧠 Fun Fact: Over $5 billion in goods have been sold by the Depop community.

What is Depop?

Depop launched in 2011 as a new way to combine social networking with shopping. In 2021, Etsy acquired it, further legitimizing its role in the resale economy.

Depop is structured like a social media app. Sellers build storefronts that resemble Instagram feeds, complete with photos, videos, captions, likes, and followers. Shoppers browse through search results or curated feeds, and communication happens through in-app messaging.

The community-driven design is what makes Depop stand out. It appeals to thrifters, designer shoppers, vintage lovers, and anyone who wants something outside of the mass-market, fast-fashion retail space.

Sustainable shopping is also a big part of its appeal, since resale helps reduce waste and extend the life of clothing. With millions of users worldwide, Depop is a global secondhand marketplace where buyers and sellers meet for everything from Y2K jeans and designer streetwear to handmade jewelry and one-of-a-kind finds.

👀 Did you know that Depop has approximately 43.5 million registered users? 

Is Depop Safe to Buy From?

For buyers, Depop is safe if you follow the rules. Communications must be made through Depop’s in-app messaging system. Purchases made through Depop’s in-app payment system. Transactions facilitated on the Depop app are protected by Depop Protection. This means that if your order never arrives, arrives damaged, or is not as described, you may qualify for a refund (30 days)

If you follow the rules and complete your transactions from the app, you will be covered. Depop is a resale marketplace where you are shopping from other Depop users, rather than from Depop directly.

As with any peer-to-peer marketplace, there is a small degree of risk associated with purchasing from others. However, the concern is mitigated, and buyers are protected when they follow the Depop terms of service.

The risks buyers face include:

• Counterfeit goods that are marketed as authentic.
• Sellers who never ship items after receiving payment.
• Misleading photos or vague descriptions that result in disappointment.
• Off-app communications and payments, which are not covered by Depop Protection, leave buyers with no recourse.

In short, Depop is safe when you stick to the app’s systems and avoid deals that seem “too good to be true.”

💡Tip: When shopping on Depop, be sure to check out a seller’s ratings and reviews. These help build trust.

Is Depop Safe to Sell On?

For sellers, Depop is safe and provides seller protection. Sellers who follow Depop’s rules, communicate with shoppers through Depop’s in-app messaging system, accept payments only from Depop, use Depop’s shipping labels (or upload tracking information) are eligible for seller protection. With Depop seller protection, sellers are covered if a buyer claims that an order never arrived. Depop Protection can help in disputes.

Selling anywhere comes with inherent risks of difficult, dishonest, or fraudulent buyers. Shipping anything also comes with potential risks, including loss or damage. 

The risks sellers face include:

• Return scams, where buyers falsely claim an item is damaged or not received.
• Chargebacks initiated through a buyer’s payment method.
• Fraudulent buyers who are dishonest or exploit loopholes in payment systems.
• Shipping loss or damage. 

Selling safely often comes down to providing accurate listings, keeping proof of shipment, and avoiding risky behavior like off-app transactions or trades.

Learn more from Depop sellers in the article Real Depop Reviews From Resellers: Should You Sell on Depop? 

Depop’s Protections Explained

Depop’s protections are designed to make the marketplace safer for both buyers and sellers. While Depop’s protections are vast, nothing is foolproof when it comes to bad-faith, fraudulent activity. 

Depop Protection covers buyers who pay through Depop Payments in-app. Refunds are possible if the item never arrives, arrives damaged, is not as described, or is not authentic. Sellers are covered in cases where they can prove shipment with tracking, and all communications and payments are sanctioned through the app.  

In the Depop Resolution Centre, buyers and sellers can escalate disputes. Depop mediates based on communication records, photos, and tracking details.

💡Tip: Turn on two-factor authentication for the Depop app to help prevent hacking and unauthorized transactions.

Depop does provide important protections, but users must follow the rules closely to benefit. The best tip is to simply use common sense and observe caution when buying and selling online. 

Refunds: Will Depop Cover You If You Get Scammed?

Refunds on Depop depend on how the purchase was made. If you buy through the app and follow the steps, you are much more likely to be protected.

Depop will cover you if:

• All communications between buyer and seller were made through Depop’s in-app messaging.
• The purchase was made using Depop Payments through the app.
• The item was never delivered, was significantly not as described, arrived damaged, or is inauthentic.  
• You file a claim within the thirty-day deadline set by Depop; and
• You provide information and evidence, such as photos and communication history.

Depop will NOT cover you if:

• You communicated about the sale outside of the in-app messaging system (i.e., email, text, WhatsApp, etc.).
• You sent money outside of the app (for example, via Venmo, CashApp, or bank transfer).
• You waited too long to file a claim (over 30 days)
• You cannot provide proof of the problem.

⭐️ Important: In Depop disputes, the burden of proof is on the buyer. This means that the buyer is responsible for providing evidence to Depop to support their claim. Thus, the buyer must prove the item never arrived, is not as described, or is not authentic.

The Resolution Centre is where refund requests are handled. Depop reviews the case, asks both sides for evidence, and makes a decision. The process can take time, but it exists to protect both buyers and sellers.

5 Common Depop Scams

Scams exist on every resale app, and Depop is no exception. Unfortunately, fraudulent activity is everywhere. Knowing the most Depop scams can help you avoid them:

• Off-app payments: A seller may ask you (or a buyer may offer) to pay through Venmo, Zelle, CashApp, or direct bank transfer. These payments are not covered by Depop Protection, so if something goes wrong, you have no way to get your money back. Always pay through Depop’s in-app system.
  
  
• Fake designer goods: Counterfeit luxury and designer pieces are often listed online for sale. Scammers use stock photos or blurry images to hide details. Always request close-up photos of tags, stitching, and proof of authenticity before purchasing.
  
  
• Non-shipping sellers: Some sellers accept payment but never ship the item. They may provide excuses or fake tracking numbers. Buyers are covered if they paid in-app, but only if they file a claim within thirty days.
  
  
• Return fraud: A dishonest buyer may claim an item is not as described to circumvent the return policy that does not allow for refunds based on fit or preference. Sometimes, buyers even send back a different product, often of lower value. This puts sellers at risk. Clear photos and records of what was shipped can help in these disputes. For high-value sales, you might choose to photograph the shipping label beside the product to evidence what was shipped.
  
  
• Phishing messages: Scammers send fake emails or texts that look like they are from Depop, asking you to click a link or share login details. These are designed to steal personal information. Depop will never ask for sensitive information through direct links.

How to Buy Safely on Depop

Access the Depop help center from the website or the mobile app.

Buying safely on Depop is about following the rules, using common sense, and being proactive. Here are the most effective steps:

1. Keep all communication and payments in-app. Never message with a seller outside of the app or submit payment outside of the in-app system.
2. Check seller reviews and ratings. Look for consistent, positive feedback.
3. Examine photos closely. Blurry images or stock photos can be red flags. The images should show the item clearly. You might also request a video. 
4. Read item descriptions carefully. Read descriptions thoroughly so you don't miss anything. A vague description may hide flaws. 
5. Ask questions. If you have questions, ask the seller. You can message them to inquire about size, condition, fit, measurements, or authenticity. 
6. Document everything. Screenshots of listings and communications can help if a dispute arises.

💡Tip: If a seller assures you that something is authentic but they do not have proof of authentication, you can always have the item authenticated yourself using the listing photos. 

How to Sell Safely on Depop

On any peer-to-peer marketplace, selling safely requires just as much caution:

1. Use Depop shipping labels with tracking. This provides proof of shipment. If you choose to ship on your own, Depop does not offer protection, and you will have to open a claim directly with the carrier. In that case, you’re limited to the protection offered by your carrier (if any). 
2. Keep communication in-app. Off-app messages will not be considered in disputes. Beyond that, off-app communication is prohibited, and you will not be protected.
3. Keep payments in the app: While it is tempting to accept payment off the app to avoid fees, this is a violation of Depop’s terms of service and will result in no seller protection. 
4. Write clear and honest descriptions. This reduces disputes over item condition.
5. Take multiple photos and videos. Show all angles and tags of your items, clearly portraying condition. 
6. Keep records of shipments and communication. These are crucial in disputes.
7. Do not trade or swap. Trades are not covered under Depop Protection.
8. Protect personal information. Never share phone numbers or addresses outside of shipping labels.

👀 Did you know that there are over 49 million items for sale on Depop? 

Pros & Cons of Depop

Like any resale app, Depop has its strengths and weaknesses. Here is a quick look at the main pros and cons to consider before deciding if it is the right place for you 👀

Depop Pros

• Ease of Use: Depop is simple, straightforward, and fun to use!
• No Seller Fees: Depop has no seller fee, only a small payment processing fee.
• Stress-free Shipping: Shipping with Depop labels (or QR codes) is simple.
• Huge Userbase: With millions of active users around the world, there are more opportunities to buy and sell.
• Backed by Etsy ownership: Adds credibility, trust, and financial stability.
• Strong Gen Z presence: Popular with younger shoppers who love trends, vintage, and streetwear.
• Focus on sustainability: Encourages secondhand shopping and reduces fashion waste.
• Buyer and seller protections: Built-in systems provide coverage for certain disputes.
  
  

Depop Cons

• Style-Based Selling: On Depop, the aesthetic is everything. Sellers must use trending hashtags and keywords.
• Scam risk exists: Users must stay alert to avoid common fraud tactics.
• Strict Policy Enforcement: Depop zealously removed prohibited items, inappropriate language, and stock photos. They do not offer too many “chances” before suspension. 
• Customer service delays: Responses can be slow, leaving some disputes unresolved for weeks.

Depop is a great place to shop and sell if you follow the rules and exercise caution. 

Final Verdict: Is Depop Safe?

So, is Depop legit? Yes, it is. Depop has been operating for over a decade, is owned by Etsy, and has millions of users around the world. It is generally safe, as long as you use the app’s payment system, follow best practices, and understand what protections exist.

At the same time, no peer-to-peer resale app is risk-free. Scams happen, disputes can be frustrating, and customer service does not always respond quickly. Safety comes down to how carefully you use the app. For buyers and sellers who follow the rules, Depop is a fun, vibrant, and trustworthy place to shop and sell.

Is Depop Legit? FAQs

Is Depop safe to buy from?

Yes, Depop is safe when you buy through the app’s payment system and avoid off-app messages and payments. Depop Protection covers purchases that do not arrive, arrive damaged, are inauthentic, or are not as described.

How do I know if a Depop seller is legit?

Check their reviews, ratings, and how long they have been active. A seller with consistent positive feedback, clear photos, and good communication is usually trustworthy. 

What should I avoid on Depop?

Avoid off-app communications, off-app payments, vague listings, and sellers with poor feedback. Stay cautious of prices that seem too good to be true, as they often indicate scams.