When selling original artwork online, what's the only safe way to accept payment to avoid scams?

Only accept payments through secure, traceable methods: credit or debit cards processed through your website’s checkout, or reputable third-party services like PayPal. If a buyer insists on paying by check or wire transfer and won’t use your website or a verified payment platform, politely decline and say, ‘I only accept payment through my website or PayPal for security reasons.’ This protects both you and the buyer. Legitimate collectors will understand; scammers will disappear.

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Asked by an artist who started selling original work · Answered by Juan · Office Hours · 2026-06-09