Stay Safe
Safety Tips for Buyers & Sellers
Follow these guidelines to have a safe and successful experience on AdGulf.
For Buyers
1
Meet in a safe place
Always meet sellers in a busy, public location — a shopping mall, coffee shop, or police station parking lot. Never invite strangers to your home.
2
Inspect before paying
Always examine the item thoroughly before handing over any money. Test electronics, check for damage, and verify authenticity.
3
Never pay in advance
Be very cautious about paying for items before receiving them. Legitimate sellers rarely ask for advance payment for local in-person transactions.
4
Use cash or trusted payment
For in-person transactions, cash is safest. Avoid bank transfers to strangers. Never send money via Western Union or cryptocurrency for local deals.
5
Trust your instincts
If something feels wrong or the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Walk away from any deal that makes you uncomfortable.
6
Verify seller identity
For high-value items, ask for ID and check the seller's profile and history on AdGulf.
7
Bring a friend
For high-value purchases, bring a friend or family member with you when meeting the seller.
For Sellers
1
Be honest in your listing
Accurately describe your item's condition. Include all known defects. Honest listings get better reviews and repeat buyers.
2
Use your own photos
Always upload real photos of the actual item you're selling. Borrowed or stock photos erode buyer trust.
3
Set a fair price
Research similar listings to set a competitive price. Overpriced items sit unsold; underpriced items raise suspicion.
4
Protect your privacy
You can hide your phone number in ad settings. Use AdGulf messaging to communicate until you trust a buyer.
5
Meet safely
Just like buyers, meet in public places. Do not invite strangers to your home.
6
Accept only verified payment
For in-person sales, cash is safest. For shipping, use reputable escrow services. Beware of overpayment scams.
7
Report suspicious buyers
If a buyer is pressuring you, offering to overpay, or seems suspicious, report them to AdGulf and do not proceed.
Warning Signs of Scams
Price is unrealistically low
Seller is overseas and can't meet in person
Requests payment via gift cards, crypto, or wire transfer
Sends overpayment and asks for change back
Rushes you to complete the deal quickly
Listing has copied or fake photos
Asks for personal information unnecessarily
Refuses to let you inspect before buying
Encountered a problem?
Report suspicious ads or users directly to our team.
Report a Problem Read our FAQ