HomeSafety Tips

Stay Safe on xello

Your safety is our top priority. Follow these guidelines for secure transactions.

Essential Safety Rules

Always Meet Before Paying

Never send money before meeting the seller and inspecting the item in person. Use secure payment methods like cash on delivery or bank transfer after inspection.

Verify Before You Buy

Check seller ratings and verification badges. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts.

Meet in Public Places

Always meet buyers/sellers in busy, public locations during daylight hours. Bring a friend if possible. Never give out your home address.

Keep Communication In-App

Use xello's chat system for all communications. This protects you and provides a record if issues arise. Avoid sharing personal contact details early.

Safety Guidelines

For Buyers

Before You Buy

  • ✓ Check seller's verification status and ratings
  • ✓ Read the full item description carefully
  • ✓ Ask questions about condition, defects, etc.
  • ✓ Request additional photos if needed
  • ✓ Research fair market prices
  • ✓ Be wary of prices far below market value

During Meetup

  • ✓ Meet in a busy public place (mall, bank, etc.)
  • ✓ Bring a friend or let someone know where you are
  • ✓ Inspect item thoroughly before paying
  • ✓ Test electronics and check serial numbers
  • ✓ Count cash carefully in a safe location
  • ✓ Get a receipt or written confirmation

For Sellers

Creating Safe Listings

  • ✓ Use clear, accurate photos of actual items
  • ✓ Write honest, detailed descriptions
  • ✓ Disclose all defects or issues upfront
  • ✓ Set fair, market-appropriate prices
  • ✓ Specify your preferred payment methods
  • ✓ State meetup location preferences clearly

Communicating with Buyers

  • ✓ Respond promptly to inquiries
  • ✓ Be professional and courteous
  • ✓ Don't share personal information early
  • ✓ Trust verified buyers over unverified ones
  • ✓ Watch for suspicious behavior or requests
  • ✓ Report inappropriate messages immediately

🚩 Red Flags to Watch For

Scam Warning Signs

  • 🚫 Requests for payment outside the platform
  • 🚫 Unusually low prices for high-value items
  • 🚫 Sellers who refuse to meet in person
  • 🚫 Requests for advance payment or deposits
  • 🚫 Poor grammar or generic responses
  • 🚫 Pressure to act quickly or "limited time offers"
  • 🚫 Requests for sensitive info (passwords, OTPs)
  • 🚫 Sellers with no verification or ratings

Common Scam Types

  • Payment Scams: Fake payment confirmations, requesting refunds after receiving items
  • Shipping Scams: Requesting advance payment for shipping, then disappearing
  • Fake Items: Counterfeit goods, photos not matching actual items
  • Account Takeover: Phishing for login credentials via fake links

Meeting & Transaction Tips

Safe Payment Methods

All payments happen directly between you and the other party.

  • • Cash on delivery (COD)
  • • Bank transfer after inspection
  • • POS payment at meetup
  • • Never pay before seeing item

For Auctions

After winning an auction, contact the seller directly.

  • • Use in-app chat to contact seller
  • • Arrange meetup or delivery
  • • Agree on payment method
  • • Inspect item before paying

Never Do This

These payment methods offer no protection:

  • ✗ Wire transfers to strangers
  • ✗ Gift cards or vouchers
  • ✗ Advance payments before meeting
  • ✗ Deposits before seeing item

Encountered a Problem?

If you suspect fraud, experience harassment, or notice suspicious activity, report it immediately. We investigate all reports and take action to protect our community.