How to Stay Safe When Buying on Siargao Living
We’re all about connecting our amazing community, but it’s always smart to stay cautious when making purchases online. Follow these tips to keep your buying experience safe and hassle-free:
1. Meet in Person Whenever Possible
- Arrange to meet the seller in a public, well-lit place (like a coffee shop or marketplace).
- If possible, bring a friend along for extra peace of mind.
- Avoid secluded areas or meeting late at night.
2. Inspect the Item Before Paying
- Check the product carefully to make sure it matches the description in the ads.
- Test items like electronics or appliances to confirm they work as expected.
- Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true—they often are!
3. Use Cash or Secure Payment Methods
- Pay in cash whenever possible and only after you’ve seen and approved the item.
- If you can’t meet in person, use a secure payment platform that offers buyer protection.
- Avoid sharing sensitive financial details like your bank account or card information.
4. Trust Your Instincts
- If something feels off about the seller or the deal, don’t go through with it.
- Be cautious of sellers who pressure you to act quickly or demand advance payments.
5. Avoid Sharing Personal Information
- Stick to sharing only what’s necessary to complete the transaction.
- Never give out your home address unless it’s essential, and you’re comfortable with it.
6. Watch Out for Scams
- Be cautious of offers that require you to pay upfront or through wire transfers.
- Beware of sellers who claim they’re out of the country and ask for payment to ship the item.
- Report any suspicious activity to us immediately.
7. Communicate Through Siargao Living Platform
- Keep all initial communication within the Siargao Living Classified Ads platform.
- This helps ensure transparency and provides a record of your conversation if needed.