Safety Tips

Stay safe when buying and selling on CamerMarket

For Buyers

  • Always meet in a safe, public place (bank, police station, busy market)
  • Inspect the item thoroughly before making any payment
  • Never send money in advance — pay only after seeing the item
  • Check the seller's verification status and reviews
  • If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is
  • Bring a friend or family member to the meeting
  • Test electronics before buying (charge phones, turn on TVs)
  • For vehicles, request to see all documents and do a test drive
  • For property, verify ownership documents independently

For Sellers

  • Meet buyers in public places during daylight hours
  • Never share your home address with unknown buyers
  • Verify payment before handing over the item
  • For mobile money, confirm the transaction notification on your phone
  • Keep records of all communications and transactions
  • Be honest in your listing description to avoid disputes
  • Upload clear, real photos of your actual item
  • Set a fair price — overpricing attracts fewer genuine buyers

Payment Safety

  • Accepted payment methods: Cash, MTN Mobile Money, Orange Money, Bank Transfer
  • For cash: count the money carefully and verify authenticity
  • For mobile money: wait for the confirmation SMS before releasing the item
  • Never share your mobile money PIN with anyone
  • For large transactions, consider meeting at a bank
  • Keep proof of payment for your records

Warning Signs

  • Seller asks for payment before you see the item
  • Price is significantly lower than market value
  • Seller refuses to meet in person
  • Seller pressures you to decide immediately
  • Listing photos look like stock images or screenshots
  • Seller asks you to pay via unusual methods
  • Seller cannot answer basic questions about the item