Stay Safe When Buying and Selling on OnShop.co.ke
At OnShop.co.ke, we are committed to providing a safe marketplace for buyers and sellers across Kenya. While we work hard to maintain a trusted platform, users should always take precautions when interacting with others online.
Follow these safety guidelines to help protect yourself from scams, fraud, and unsafe transactions.
For Buyers
1. Meet in a Safe Public Place
Whenever possible, arrange meetings in busy public locations such as shopping centers, business districts, or police-approved safe zones.
2. Inspect Items Before Payment
Always verify the condition, quality, and functionality of an item before making payment.
3. Be Cautious of Unrealistic Prices
If a deal appears too good to be true, it probably is. Compare prices with similar listings before proceeding.
4. Avoid Advance Payments
Do not send deposits or full payments to unknown sellers before seeing the product.
5. Verify Seller Information
Ask questions about the product and confirm important details before committing to a purchase.
6. Trust Your Instincts
If something feels suspicious, discontinue the transaction and look for alternative listings.
For Sellers
1. Meet Buyers in Safe Locations
Choose public places with adequate security and avoid isolated areas.
2. Confirm Payment Before Releasing Goods
Ensure payment has been received and verified before handing over products.
3. Protect Your Personal Information
Avoid sharing sensitive information such as passwords, banking credentials, PINs, or identification documents.
4. Beware of Fake Payment Notifications
Always verify payments directly through your bank, mobile money account, or payment provider.
5. Keep Communication Professional
Use clear communication and maintain records of important transaction details.
6. Report Suspicious Activity
Notify OnShop if you encounter fraudulent behavior or suspicious users.
Common Scams to Watch Out For
Fake Payment Confirmations
Scammers may send edited screenshots or fake SMS messages claiming payment has been made.
Advance Payment Requests
Fraudsters may request deposits for products, rentals, or services that do not exist.
Overpayment Scams
A buyer claims to have sent more money than required and requests a refund before the original payment clears.
Identity Fraud
Never share passwords, verification codes, account recovery information, or confidential business data.
Off-Platform Requests
Exercise caution when someone pressures you to move transactions to unfamiliar channels or websites.
Online Safety Best Practices
- Use strong and unique passwords.
- Enable two-factor authentication where available.
- Keep your devices updated.
- Avoid clicking suspicious links.
- Never share one-time passwords (OTPs) or verification codes.
- Be cautious when communicating with unknown individuals.
Reporting Abuse
If you encounter suspicious listings, fraudulent activity, spam, or abusive behavior, please report it immediately.
Report a Listing
Use the “Report Listing” feature available on the listing page.
Contact Support
Email: support@onshop.co.ke
Provide as much information as possible, including screenshots, listing URLs, usernames, and transaction details.
Disclaimer
OnShop.co.ke provides a platform that connects buyers and sellers. We do not own, inspect, guarantee, or endorse items listed by users. Users are responsible for conducting their own due diligence before completing any transaction.
By using OnShop.co.ke, you acknowledge that all transactions are conducted at your own discretion and risk.
Remember: The safest transaction is one where both parties verify information, meet responsibly, and complete payments securely. Stay alert, stay informed, and help us keep the OnShop community safe.