Unfortunately, scams are a reality of online selling so please look out for the warning signs. If you are in any doubt about a buyer either contact us for advice or don't proceed. Here’s our advice for a happy and secure selling experience: 

Make sure you receive payment

Don’t send items upfront in advance of receiving online payment and don’t get caught by fake payment emails. If you are using a secure payment method, please check that the credit amount is showing as cleared funds on your balance. 

Think of personal safety when meeting buyers

It’s best to keep things local by meeting face to face with the buyer to exchange items and money at the same time. For your personal safety, meet in a well lit public place and always take someone with you, or at least tell a friend where you’re going. 

Don’t part with cash too soon

Don’t hand over the item until you have cash in hand. Don’t accept partial payment or anything other than cash for the transaction. If the method of payment changes from your previous agreement walk away from the deal. If the potential buyer wants time to consider and comes back later, follow the same procedures. Don’t get careless the second time around.

Watch out for text scams & stay inside our messaging system

If you have your mobile number within the text of your advert, beware of text messages from potential scammers asking you to communicate outside of the Wightbay messaging system and to communicate via email. If you do go along with these, then there is a chance that you may never get the product you have ordered and you will lose any money you have paid.