Currency trading is a crucial aspect of the economy of Path of Exile (PoE). In contrast to the classic MMORPG, PoE is based on a barter system that is constructed on a broad variety of orbs and scrolls, including Chaos Orbs and Mirror of Kalandra. In this player-driven market, which is so successful, scammers have discovered how to take advantage of the players, particularly new ones. In case you are going to trade in Poe 1 currency, this guide will assist you in preventing the most common scams and protecting your currency.
Trade on Official and Reliable Trading Platforms
The initial principle of safe trading is to use trustworthy platforms. Your safest bet is to browse offers on the official Path of Exile trade site. There are also such tools as Poe. A Ninja that allows you to verify the current exchange rates. Never buy anything from a random seller on Reddit, Discord, or in-game chat unless they are a verified trader in an established community. Always use only reputable third-party websites with good reviews, SSL encryption, and secure payment methods.
Never Forget to Check the Trade Window Twice
The most popular scam in PoE is the so-called quick-swap, when a scammer puts the right amount of currency in the trade window and waits until you hover over it and accept, then switches it to a lower-value currency or quantity before you confirm. How to prevent it:
- Hover over every item in the trade window and then click on Accept.
- Do not rush even when the other player is pushing you.
- The accept button will be reset should anything change in the trade window. That is a signal to recheck the trade.
Be Aware of What You Are Trading
Players who are not aware of the prices in the market are usually exploited by scammers. As an example, a person may offer 50 Chaos Orbs on an item that is worth 5 Exalted Orbs and hope that you are not aware of the difference.
Tips:
- Check prices using Poe. Ninja or in-game trade.
- Keep abreast of league values. The prices vary between the Standard and Challenge leagues.
Watch out for Scams called Mirror Service.
The Mirror of Kalandra can be used to copy high-value items, and there are players who provide a mirror service, where they allow you to mirror their item in exchange for a fee. Although there are legit mirror services, this is one of the riskiest trades in the game. Fraudsters will steal your Mirror and run away. In order to remain safe:
- Services offered by reputable players should be used only, and they are usually those with a reputation in the forums or trusted communities.
- Never buy Mirrors from strangers, even though their equipment may be nice.
Third-Party Trades that are not Guaranteed
In other cases, scammers will propose to be a middleman or propose to make multi-step trades with other players. Such arrangements are vulnerable to manipulation. As an example, a scammer can say:
- You will give me your item, and my friend will send you the currency in return.
- We will do the trade in a third-party hideout.
Avoid:
- Any trade that is not 1:1 and made in the PoE trade window.
- Any deal that involves trusting a stranger without any supervision.
Currency Trades Outside the Game
Although there are players who purchase PoE currency with real money, this is not allowed by the Terms of Service of Grinding Gear Games and can lead to account bans. Well, then, should you decide to go on:
- Use only the well-reviewed and established websites.
- Always avoid paying through irreversible payment systems such as crypto or friends and family PayPal unless you are certain.
- Make sure the site has a live customer support and order history.
Be Aware of Copycats and Name Rip-offs
Scammers usually make the names of their characters similar to those of popular players or combine the name of your friend with a minor change. When you are expecting a trade with somebody, always:
- Re-check names of characters, particularly additional characters such as l (L) or I (i).
- In case of doubt, request them to whisper first to make sure.
Trust Your Gut Feelings
When something is suspicious (such as a player being pushy, avoiding questions, or requesting multi-step trades), simply walk away. Nothing and no bargain is worth losing your hard-earned money.
Conclusion
Path of Exile trading is both thrilling and profitable, yet it is a trap to the uninitiated. Use only official channels, check all trade windows, and keep yourself updated on item values. Being careful and knowledgeable, you will be able to safely explore the prosperous economy of PoE and not lose your currency to scammers.
