Things Banned on Craigslist
Despite its reputation as an "anything goes" second-hand online market, Craigslist has made several attempts to clean up its act. It adheres strictly to the federal laws and the laws of California, where it is based, and prohibits activities that are illegal in the area of the users. Craigslist's terms of use and partial list of banned items is hosted on its website.
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Impersonation, False Advertising and Spam
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Craigslist explicitly prohibits false advertising, spam and other deceitful posts. Users cannot lie about their identity or claim to be part of an organization they do not belong to. You cannot spam other users or even sell spam services. Pyramid schemes, multilevel marketing and other shady practices are also banned, although only Craigslist can determine what counts as deceptive advertising.
Harassment and Discrimination
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Like many other online services, Craigslist prohibits the harassment of other members, including unsolicited advertising sent to users who have prohibited such contact. Pornographic and/or inflammatory content is also banned. All potential employers must abide by equal opportunity hiring laws and the anti-discrimination provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which prohibits discriminatory hiring of citizens or permanent residents unless required by law. In addition, anyone looking to rent or sell a property must abide by the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in advertising on basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status or handicap.
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Illegal or Regulated Activities
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The sale of illegal or heavily regulated goods and services is prohibited on Craigslist. This includes, but it is not limited to, drugs, pornography, restricted or regulated plants and insects, or law-breaking tools such, as lock picks and false IDs. "Drugs" includes illegal drugs, tobacco, alcohol, proscription drugs and non-proscription drugs that have not been evaluated by the FDA. Stolen and counterfeit goods are also banned. Tickets that cannot be legally transferred are also prohibited. Adult services have also been banned, after a protracted legal battle with several state attorneys general.
Sale of Animals, Animal Parts or Human Parts
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Partially related to illegal activities, the sale of animal or human parts is prohibited. This includes blood and stud breeding services. In addition, the sale of pets is banned as well. However, Craigslist does allow users to list a pet for adoption with a small transferal fee. All decisions on whether to remove a post are made at its own discretion.
Sale of Dangerous Items
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In addition to standard U.S. law regulating the sale of items, Craigslist limits the sale of dangerous materials due to liability concerns and the dangers of sending such items through the mail. This includes weapons and firearms, but it also includes fireworks, pesticides and products that contain unadvertised hazardous substances. Used and rebuilt batteries are also included. Unpackaged food products and unsanitized bedding and clothing are also prohibited.
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References
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