Protect Yourself Against Internet Fraud
While the vast majority of listings on Rata.ng are posted by honest people, and many successful transactions take place daily, it's important to be aware of the potential risks of online fraud. By following these common-sense guidelines, you can significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim.
Our Advice for Safe Transactions:
- Meet in Person
Whenever possible, conduct business face-to-face. Meeting in a public place, like a market or mall, ensures you can inspect the product and verify the identity of the seller or buyer. - Avoid Anonymous Payment Methods
Never send money via cryptocurrency or any other anonymous payment system. These methods offer no protection or recourse if a transaction goes wrong. - Do Not Send Money or Products Abroad
Be cautious of requests to send money or products outside of Nigeria. International transactions with strangers are often risky and difficult to resolve if something goes wrong. - Do Not Accept Cheques
Cheques can be easily forged, and even legitimate checks can bounce days or weeks after you've deposited them. It's safer to deal in cash or use secure payment methods like escrow services. - Verify the Identity of the Other Party
Ask for the other person’s name, address, and phone number, then verify the information through independent sources. If possible, conduct a quick online search to confirm their details. - Keep Records of All Correspondence
Save copies of all emails, texts, and any other communication. Keep a detailed record of the listing, including any images and descriptions, as well as contact details and any agreements made. - Be Wary of Deals That Seem Too Good to Be True
If a deal seems unbelievably good, it often is. Be cautious of sellers offering products at unusually low prices or buyers willing to pay far more than the market value. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Recognizing Scam Attempts
Scammers often use similar tactics to defraud users. Be aware of the following red flags:
- The Person Claims to Be Abroad or Traveling
Many scammers will claim they are outside the country or traveling to avoid meeting in person. - Refusal to Meet in Person
If the other party refuses or delays meeting you face-to-face, they may be hiding their true identity or intentions. - Request for Payment via Western Union, MoneyGram, Cryptocurrency or Cheque
Legitimate sellers and buyers typically avoid these untraceable payment methods. A request for payment through such services is a major red flag. - Poor Language and Copied Messages
Be cautious of messages in broken or bad English, or those that seem copied and pasted. Scammers often use automated responses or recycled templates. - Too-Good-to-Be-True Offers
Scammers frequently offer products at an extremely low price or claim to pay above the asking price for no apparent reason. Such offers should be avoided.
Additional Tips for Protecting Yourself:
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it’s better to walk away from the deal.
- Use Secure Payment Methods: When available, use secure payment gateways or services that protect both buyers and sellers.
- Beware of Overpayment Scams: If a buyer sends you more money than requested and asks you to refund the difference, it’s likely a scam. Always verify payments before shipping any products or issuing refunds.
- Inspect Items Before Payment: When buying goods, ensure you thoroughly inspect the item before handing over any money. Avoid paying in advance for items you haven’t seen in person.
- Report Suspicious Listings: If you come across a suspicious listing or suspect fraudulent activity, report it to us immediately at hi@rata.ng.
Stay Safe on Rata.ng
By following these guidelines and using your best judgment, you can protect yourself from fraud while enjoying the benefits of our online marketplace. Always prioritize safety and security in every transaction.
