How to not get scammed on Craigslist?

I saw someone selling an iPhone 4 on Craigslist for $180, and it looks like it's in good condition. I really want to get it, but my dad brought up how he got scammed getting an iPod nano from Craigslist, because it wouldn't sync with his computer. I'm worried something like this is going to happen when I get the phone. How can I avoid experiencing problems like this? I'm thinking of just straight up asking the person if it gets detected, or asking if I could use their computer and make sure it works, but I'm worried I'll be too pushy.

Nothing is foolproof except a cash deal done in person after checking item operation personally.
sane rules as buying a used car; caveat emptor.

If you are buying an iPhone offer to meet them at a phone store or Apple store to conduct the sale

  • Is there anyway I can get my money back or find the person who scammed me? I got offered a iPhone 6 for £200 from a company in London and all I had to do was pay some money and I d have it in a week (today) and now everytime I ring up the number isn't found but the man gave me some bank details and a name so is there anything I can do
  • I was scammed by people to use my credit to get iphones and now I'm in debt? These people told us that if our credit was good and they helped us sign up for two year contacts and they said they'd pay for the phones and give us $50 per phone. They said we could just not pay the bills and it would be fine but now I'm getting the bills. Is this going to f up my credit? Should I just pay them off in full? I already canceled the service and reported them stolen.
  • I've been scammed on Craigslist? Some posted a ad on Craigslist selling an iPhone and the they said they were in a different state I send them money thru money gram and they never shipped the phone can I get my money back and get them arrested all I have is their state and name thank you
  • How to get my money back? I got scammed? So i got scammed someone sent a check for $2300 for a iphone 6 i was spose to send 1300 back i'm out $2300 now but i have my iphone i was waiting for the check to clear and it never did and now i owe $2,030.00 to USAA is it possible to even find these people who have been telling me to send money back and my iphone and stuff?