Rule one: always use the secure trade window
The in-game trade window locks both players' offers until both sides press confirm, and it shows exactly what each person is giving. Used correctly, it makes item-and-gold swaps atomic — either the full trade happens or nothing does. Before you trade with anyone, make sure you understand how the window works by reading the trading system guide, and follow the safe procedure in how to trade items.
The scams to watch for
Nearly every VvW trading scam falls into one of these patterns:
- The last-second swap — the scammer changes their offer to a cheaper item just before you confirm, hoping you do not re-read the window
- The trust trade — "you send first and I'll pay you back" — there is no reason a legitimate trade cannot use the secure window, so this is always a scam
- Look-alike substitution — offering a common item with an icon or name similar to the rare one you agreed on
- Fake middleman — a stranger offering to "hold" items or gold for a high-value trade; real trades never need a middleman
- Quantity sleight of hand — a stack of 1 dressed up to look like a stack of 100
🛡 Golden rule
If a trade requires you to send first, trust a stranger, or leave the official trade window or auction house, it is a scam. No exceptions. Legitimate players are happy to use the secure window.
Verify before you confirm
Treat the confirm button as a contract. Before you press it:
- Re-read every item in the window — exact name, rarity, and stat rolls, not just the icon
- Check the quantity on every stack
- Confirm the gold amount digit by digit
- If anything changed after you first agreed, cancel and start over
Scammers count on you rushing. Slowing down for five seconds defeats almost all of them.
Prefer the auction house for valuables
For high-value items, the auction house is even safer than a direct trade because there is no counterparty to swap the offer — you list, a buyer pays the shown price, and the system handles the exchange. Direct trades are best reserved for guildmates and friends where trust already exists.
Protect your account itself
Many "trade scams" are really account-theft attempts — fake links promising free gold, phishing sites impersonating the login page, or "trade my rare item on this website" offers. Never enter your password anywhere but the official site, never click gold-giveaway links, and enable two-factor authentication. The wider question of platform safety is covered in is VvW safe.
If you get scammed, report immediately
Screenshot the trade, note the player's name and time, and file a report. Do not retaliate, and never accept an "apology re-trade" — that is a classic follow-up scam. Reporting also helps the team catch repeat offenders and keep the economy healthy for everyone. For the full economy context, visit the economy hub.
Frequently asked questions
What is the safest way to trade?
Use the in-game secure trade window, which locks both sides until both players confirm. Never mail items first on a promise, and never trade outside the official system.
What are the most common trading scams?
The classic scams are the last-second item swap, the "send first and I'll pay you back" trust trade, look-alike item substitution, and fake middleman offers. All rely on you skipping the secure trade window.
What should I do if I get scammed?
Report the player immediately with screenshots and the trade details. Do not retaliate or accept an "apology re-trade" — that is usually a second scam.
Is Vampires vs. Werewolves safe to trade in?
Yes. The secure trade window and auction house make legitimate trading safe. Nearly every scam requires a player to voluntarily bypass those systems, so staying inside them keeps you protected.