Safety Guidelines
QwikSale is a peer-to-peer marketplace. These best practices help keep you safe when buying or selling.
Last updated 2025-06-01
Top 3 rules for buyers
- Meet in a well-lit, public place — never at night alone.
- Inspect and test the item before paying.
- Use cash/M-Pesa only after you’re satisfied; avoid “reservation” fees.
Top 3 rules for sellers
- Bring a friend to meet-ups; keep valuables out of sight until ready.
- Confirm full payment (M-Pesa SMS + app balance) before handing over the item.
- Keep records: buyer phone, time, location, and any receipts.
On this page
Safe meet-ups
- Choose public locations with CCTV (malls, coffee shops, police-approved zones).
- Tell a friend where you’re going; share your live location if possible.
- Daytime meetings are safest. Bring only the cash you intend to spend.
- For electronics, test thoroughly (power on, IMEI, battery health, ports, cameras).
- For vehicles, view logbook, verify seller identity, and consider a mechanic check.
Payment safety
- Prefer M-Pesa or cash in person. Avoid wire transfers and crypto for first-time deals.
- Beware of “overpayment” tricks or requests to “refund the difference”.
- Confirm M-Pesa balance in your app — not just an SMS screenshot.
- Do not pay “reservation”, “token”, or “clearance” fees to strangers.
- Never share one-time passwords (OTP) or PINs with anyone.
Fraud red flags
- Price is far below market with urgency: “first come, first served, pay now”.
- Refusal to meet, or pushing for courier only, especially for high-value items.
- Request for advance fees, deposits, or payment codes to “verify you”.
- Seller/buyer refuses basic verification (name, phone match, item serials).
- Communication moves immediately to off-platform links that look suspicious.
If it feels wrong, walk away. There will always be another deal.
Protect your data
- Share only what’s needed to complete the sale (first name and phone are usually enough).
- Never share copies of your ID, bank statements, or ATM card photos.
- Use unique, strong passwords for your accounts. Enable 2FA where possible.
- On public Wi-Fi, avoid logging into financial accounts.
Delivery & shipping
- For courier deals, use trackable services and keep receipts.
- Agree upfront on who pays shipping and what “item not as described” means.
- Unbox on camera upon delivery for proof if a dispute arises.
Reporting & support
If you encounter suspicious behavior, fake items, or harassment, report it so our team can investigate and take action.
In an emergency or if you believe a crime has occurred, contact local authorities first.
QwikSale is a neutral marketplace. We do not hold funds or guarantee transactions. Following these guidelines reduces risk but doesn’t eliminate it. Stay alert, trust your instincts, and report issues.