Process and safety
How CS2 skin trading works
A marketplace can help users discover listings and coordinate an order, while an eligible inventory transfer may be completed through a Steam-supported process such as a Trade Offer.
1. Identify the exact item
Record the weapon, finish, exterior, float and any pattern, sticker, StatTrak or Souvenir details. Similar names do not make two listings identical.
2. Understand the marketplace model
Check who creates the listing, where payment occurs, which fees or restrictions currently apply and how delivery is completed. Marketplace rules and regional availability can change.
3. Review the complete offer
Before confirming anything, compare the final terms with the listing you selected. If Steam is involved, open the offer from your own Steam account and inspect both sides.
4. Keep account credentials private
No informational website, marketplace seller or support agent needs your Steam password, Steam Guard code, recovery code, session cookie or API key to explain a listing. Enter Steam credentials only on official Steam services.
5. Recognise common warning signs
- A lookalike domain or unexpected login page.
- Pressure to act before checking the details.
- A different item, account or price appearing at confirmation.
- A request to install software or share authentication data.
- An unexpected Trade Offer that you did not initiate.
See the independent BUFF guide and account and trade security.