Safety tips

General Safety Tips for Buyers and Sellers

For Buyers:

  1. Research the Seller:

    • Check the seller’s profile and reviews (if available) before making a purchase.
    • Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.

  2. Communicate Through the Platform:

    • Use the website's messaging system to communicate with the seller. Avoid sharing personal contact information until you're confident in the transaction.
    • Keep records of all communications and transactions.

  3. Meet in a Safe Location:

    • If you’re meeting the seller in person to complete the purchase, choose a public, well-lit place, preferably during daylight hours.
    • Consider bringing a friend or letting someone know where you’ll be.

  4. Inspect the Product:

    • Thoroughly inspect the item before making a payment. Ensure it matches the description and photos in the ad.
    • Test the item if possible, especially for electronics or machinery.

  5. Beware of Scams:

    • Be cautious if the seller asks for payment via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. These payment methods are hard to trace and reverse.
    • Avoid sellers who push for immediate payment or offer a deal that requires you to act quickly.

  6. Use Secure Payment Methods:

    • Whenever possible, use payment methods that offer buyer protection, such as credit cards or payment services like PayPal.
    • Avoid cash payments for high-value items, and never send money in advance for a product you haven’t seen.

For Sellers:

  1. Screen Potential Buyers:

    • Be wary of buyers who rush to complete a deal or offer more than your asking price.
    • Avoid buyers who ask you to ship an item before receiving payment or who want to pay using untraceable methods.

  2. Meet in Public Places:

    • Arrange to meet the buyer in a safe, public location for the exchange.
    • Bring a friend or let someone know where and when you’re meeting the buyer.

  3. Cash Transactions:

    • For in-person transactions, cash is typically safest. However, consider meeting at a bank where the money can be verified.
    • Avoid accepting checks or money orders unless you’re certain they’re legitimate, as these can be easily forged.

  4. Protect Your Personal Information:

    • Do not share unnecessary personal information, such as your home address or bank details, with buyers.
    • Use the website’s communication tools rather than personal email or phone numbers.

  5. Use Verified Payment Methods:

    • For high-value transactions, consider using secure payment methods that offer protection for both parties, such as escrow services.
    • Wait until the payment is confirmed before handing over the item.

  6. Stay Alert to Scams:

    • Be cautious of buyers who ask for your banking information or suggest an unusual payment method.
    • Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s better to walk away from the deal.

For Both Buyers and Sellers:

  1. Report Suspicious Activity:

    • If you encounter suspicious behavior, report it to the website’s support team immediately. This helps keep the platform safe for everyone.

  2. Trust Your Instincts:

    • If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to back out of a deal. Your safety is more important than completing a transaction.

  3. Stay Informed:

    • Regularly review safety tips and guidelines provided by the platform to stay aware of common scams and best practices.

  4. Use Platform Features:

    • Take advantage of any buyer/seller protections, review systems, and secure payment options offered by the platform.

By following these safety tips, both buyers and sellers can enjoy a secure and positive experience on the platform. Remember, the best deals are safe deals!