Your safety is our top priority. While we strive to create a secure platform for all users, it’s important that you take precautions when communicating, meeting, or transacting with others on the platform.

Please follow these safety guidelines to protect yourself from fraud, scams, and unwanted risks:

✅ 1. Always Verify Listings and Businesses

  • Double-check the business name, address, phone number, and reviews before engaging.
  • Contact the business directly via verified numbers (after OTP verification).
  • Be cautious of listings with overly attractive offers or unrealistic pricing.

✅ 2. Use OTP Verification

  • We require One-Time Password (OTP) verification before allowing users to view contact numbers.
  • This protects both the business and the inquirer from spam, bots, or fraudulent activity.
  • Never share your OTP with anyone.

✅ 3. Don’t Share Personal or Financial Information

  • Do not disclose sensitive information like your bank details, Aadhar/PAN numbers, or personal ID.
  • Avoid making payments unless you’ve verified the other party’s authenticity.

✅ 4. Meet in Safe, Public Locations

  • If an in-person meeting is necessary (e.g., to view products or property), choose a well-lit public place like a café, office, or police-verified zone.
  • Let someone know where you’re going and who you’re meeting.
  • Prefer daytime meetings over nighttime ones.

✅ 5. Use Secure and Traceable Payment Methods

  • Avoid paying in advance via untraceable methods like cash deposits, UPI links sent via SMS, or unknown payment apps.
  • Use secure gateways and keep a record of all transactions and conversations.

✅ 6. Watch Out for Common Scams

Be alert to red flags, such as:

  • Sellers or service providers asking for payment before any interaction.
  • Unsolicited messages asking to take the conversation off-platform.
  • Requests for OTPs, passwords, or private documents.

✅ 7. Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off—walk away. It’s better to lose an opportunity than fall victim to a scam or fraud.

✅ 8. Report Suspicious Behavior

  • Use the “Report” button on listings or contact us directly at [your support email].
  • We investigate and take swift action against fraudsters, spammers, or abusive users.

✅ 9. Protect Your Account

  • Use a strong password for your profile.
  • Don’t share your login credentials.
  • Log out after using public/shared devices.

✅ 10. For Businesses: Keep Your Info Updated

  • Make sure your phone number, address, and other details are current.
  • Respond professionally to inquiries and flag suspicious ones.

⚠️ If You’ve Been Scammed

If you suspect fraud:

  1. Stop communication immediately.
  2. Report the user or listing to us.
  3. File a police complaint with any available evidence (screenshots, messages, payment proof).

By following these guidelines and using common sense, you can enjoy a safe and trustworthy experience on classified.thewaveandaman.com.