Buying safely - Top Tips for Buyers & Sellers

The vast majority of DoneDeal users are trustworthy and genuine. Nevertheless, it is very important to have the same common sense and take the same precautions online as you would offline. Always remember, if you have doubts about an ad or user, use the Report Ad button to alert our Customer Service team, who will investigate further.

Safe Online Communication and Transactions

Always communicate and transact through the platform's messaging system and payment methods to ensure safety.

• Use the platform's message centre for all communications with buyers or sellers.

• Immediately stop communicating with anyone who seems illegitimate.

• Never click on links to other websites provided by buyers or sellers.

• Avoid sharing bank or credit card details outside the platform.

• When using PayPal, select "goods and services" payment, not "friends and family."

• Never use Western Union or similar money transfer services.

Meeting in Person

Meeting locally in a safe, public place is the best way to avoid security issues.

• Meet locally whenever possible to avoid most safety concerns.

• Arrange meetings in well-lit public places, ideally with CCTV.

• Inform someone of your meeting details and keep your mobile phone handy.

• If meeting at home, secure valuables out of sight.

• Be wary of sellers pressuring you to make a quick decision.

• Be cautious with cash; consider using a bank draft instead.

• Verify bank drafts with the issuing bank before handing over goods.

• Never accept foreign cheques.

General Safety Advice

Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, and always verify the condition of items before purchase.

• Be suspicious of goods priced significantly lower than usual.

• Watch out for forgeries of brand-name goods, tickets, and electronics.

• Remember that items are sold "as seen"; ensure you're satisfied with the condition before buying.

• Sellers should not hand over goods until full payment is received.

Beware of Phishing

Phishing attempts to deceive you into revealing information; be vigilant and protective of your personal data. These attempts can happen via email, phone, text message or WhatsApp.

• Delete suspicious emails or text messages; flag them as spam if possible.

• Change your password and review privacy settings if you suspect phishing.

• Never provide personal information to someone who calls you if you did not initiate the call.

• Hang up if a call seems illegitimate.

• Never allow third-party control of your computer or download unknown software.

• Do not click on links in suspicious emails.

• Always remember you control your personal data and actions; verify requests before reacting.

Need further assistance? Contact our Customer Support team today.

Please note that these guides do not constitute legal advice and any information provided in the guides should not be construed as legal advice or legal interpretation. We do not accept any liability for any loss caused by your reliance on this guide.