Buying a used Apple device—whether it’s a MacBook Pro/Air, iPad, iPhone, iMac, or Mac Mini—requires research and caution. Platforms like eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and some Amazon third-party sellers can be risky.

If you choose to buy this way, always:

• Check the seller’s reputation and read reviews.
• Understand that you may not have buyer protection when dealing with a random local seller.
• Verify that iCloud Activation Lock is off.
• Check for any MDM/DEP profile locks (common with corporate, school, or university-owned devices).
• Test all hardware functions.
• Confirm that the product’s serial number matches the specifications provided by the seller.

If you’re unsure, I can help research an Apple product you’re considering purchasing.

For a detailed checklist of what to investigate, see this article:

Buying a Used MacBook – What to Check (link opens in new browser tab)