Last reviewed September 2026 · How we research · Read the game's rules and enforcement summary first.
Understand the Main Risks
The Second Life Terms and Conditions say Linden dollars may not be purchased or sold outside of the LindeX, and Linden Lab may reverse LindeX transactions in cases of suspected fraud. Linden Lab has also warned that outside sites use deep discounts to steal card details, and that fraudulent L$ can be recovered, leaving the buyer to chase anonymous sellers for a refund. See our Second Life buyer's guide.
How to Vet a Seller
Since the LindeX is the only authorized place to buy, there is no authorized third party to vet. If you nevertheless consider an outside seller, treat any that asks you to enter card details on an unfamiliar site as a scam. Our Second Life page lists vendors because players search for them, not as an endorsement.
Safer Delivery Practices
Never share your password or viewer login. Delivery should be a normal in-world payment to your avatar, nothing more. Check the amount and keep records.
Protect Your Payment Information
Do not enter card details on sites you cannot verify. Use a payment with dispute rights, and note that Linden Lab's own guidance is to buy only on the LindeX.
Red Flags to Avoid
Prices far below the LindeX rate; requests to enter card details on unfamiliar pages; requests for your login; and sellers who claim to be authorized (the reseller program closed in 2015).
Step-by-Step Order Checklist
If you have weighed the rules and decided to go ahead, work through these steps in order. They reduce the avoidable risks; they do not make an order compliant with the game's terms.
- Check the current LindeX rate first; it is the only authorized source.
- Compare any outside offer with that rate and treat deep discounts as a warning.
- Never enter card details on an unfamiliar site.
- Never share your login.
- Pay with a method that allows disputes and keep records.
- Verify the L$ amount on arrival.
What to Do After Delivery
Confirm the amount and keep records. Understand that Linden Lab can reverse transactions it believes involve fraud and that terms violations can lead to termination.
Lower-Risk Alternatives
Buy L$ on the LindeX or in the viewer, or earn it by selling content and services. See our L$ guide and leveling guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy L$?
Only on the LindeX, which is the only authorized place.
Can I sell L$?
Only on the LindeX.
Are there authorized resellers?
The reseller pilot closed on August 1, 2015.
