Buying online is sometimes a chilling experience, as buying from strangers is as risky as walking alone in the park in the middle of the night.

However, OLX Kenya, a free online classifieds site that connects Buyers with Sellers wants to eliminate this fears by taking its users safety and protection as crucial.

‘”As OLX is a market place, we always advice our users to observe the principles of buying and selling which apply across both online and offline market places,” announced the firm. “We urge our users to practice good judgment and keep the following tips in mind.”

The firm says buyers should buy locally so they can inspect the item, meet the seller, and pay at the time of pickup or delivery of the item. Buyers should also ensure that they meet sellers at a safe and public location and can be accompanied with a friend just in case.

“The best way to transact is to exchange the item and payment at the same time. Don’t send money before you see the item and you are satisfied that it meets your requirements, says the firm. “Ask for clear information on condition of the good and the price before you meet the seller. Use only those payment methods that you trust and are familiar with and get a verifiable telephone number of the seller. In case of electronic goods, cars, and bikes you should test the functioning of the product before purchase.”

The firm also adds that buyers of  items such as cars or land ought to confirm ownership at the relevant authorities and do their research on comparative prices for the product and should not share their financial information such as bank details, pin, to anyone.

Always use the “Email Seller” to get in touch with the seller says the firm as this will help them notify you immediately if they are made aware of any fraudulent activities by the seller.

For sellers the marketplace says it’s preferable to take the full payment at the time of the delivery and also use a safe location to meet. On terms of payments, sellers ought to verify the buyer credentials if there is a request for a bulk order and should also verify buyers telephone numbers.

“Do not to accept cheques and ensure that your product meets the features you list in your ad post to avoid misunderstandings with buyer and remember not to share your financial information except the one required for payment,” says OLX Kenya.

If a users suspects someone to be a fraudulent buyer or seller, they should contact the firm at [email protected] and if they fall victim of fraud, notify the Police immediately.

OLX does not mediate between the seller and the buyer and and any individual or website claiming to be from OLX offering to help with one’s transaction as an agent or broker is fraudulent. Users should not take up such offers. OLX main objective is to ensure its users are safe on its site.