Staying safe

The golden rules

• See it before you pay. Never pay a deposit or send money for something you have not seen.
• Keep talking on Bristolians Market. Scammers try to move you to WhatsApp, text or email, where we cannot help.
• If it looks too good to be true, it probably is. A nearly new iPhone for £50 is a scam.
• Never share codes. No genuine buyer needs a code sent to your phone, your bank login or your card details.

Meeting up

• Meet somewhere public and busy in daylight, or bring a friend.
• Tell someone where you are going.
• For large items collected from home, have someone with you and keep valuables out of sight.

Paying and getting paid

• Cash on collection, or a bank transfer made while you are together and checked in your banking app.
• Ignore emails or screenshots that claim a payment is “pending” or “on hold”. Check your own banking app.
• Be wary of anyone offering to pay more than the price, or to send a courier and pay in advance.

Cars and vans

• Check the V5C logbook: the name and address should match the seller and where you are viewing the car.
• View at the seller’s home address, not a lay-by or car park.
• Take a test drive with your own insurance in place, and consider a vehicle history check.

Renting a home or room

• Never pay a holding deposit or rent before viewing the property in person.
• A landlord must protect your deposit in a government-approved scheme and give you the details.
• Ask for the EPC and gas safety certificate.

Jobs

• A genuine employer never asks you to pay for training, a uniform or a background check before you start.
• Do not share your bank details or National Insurance number until you have a written offer.

If something goes wrong

• Use Report on the listing or conversation, and Block the person.
• If you have lost money, call your bank straight away, then report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
• If you are in danger, call 999.

Read our prohibited items list, or contact us.