Kijiji Safety Tips for Buyers and Sellers
Your safety is important to us.
While most Kijiji transactions are completed successfully, it’s always a good idea to take precautions when buying, selling, or communicating online. Following these safety tips can help protect your personal information, your finances, and your overall marketplace experience.
1. Meet Locally and Safely
Whenever possible, arrange transactions in person within your local community.
Choose a public, well-lit location such as:
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A coffee shop
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A shopping centre
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A community centre
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Another busy public area
Meeting in person allows you to:
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Inspect the item before purchasing
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Confirm the item’s condition
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Reduce the risk of misunderstandings
If you need to visit a private residence to view an item, consider bringing a friend or family member with you.
Avoid inviting strangers into your home unless it is necessary for the transaction.
2. Choose a Safe Time and Place
When arranging a meeting:
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Meet during daylight hours whenever possible
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Choose locations with other people nearby
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Let a trusted friend or family member know where you’re going
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Share the meeting location and expected return time
Trust your instincts. If something feels uncomfortable or suspicious, consider ending the transaction.
3. Use Secure Payment Methods
Always use payment methods that you are comfortable with and can verify.
For Sellers
Before handing over an item:
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Confirm that payment has been received
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Verify funds directly through your bank or payment provider
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Do not rely solely on email or text confirmations
Fraudsters can create fake payment notifications that appear legitimate.
For Buyers
Avoid sending money before inspecting the item whenever possible.
Be especially cautious if a seller requests payment before meeting or viewing the item.
Avoid Wire Transfers
Services such as wire transfers can be difficult to recover if fraud occurs.
If you’ve already sent a wire transfer and believe you may have been scammed, contact the provider immediately.
4. Protect Your Kijiji Account
Keep your account secure by:
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Using a strong, unique password
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Avoiding password reuse across multiple websites
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Being cautious of unexpected emails or messages
Never share your password with anyone.
If you receive a message asking you to verify your account, reset your password, or provide personal information, confirm that it comes from a legitimate source before taking action.
5. Protect Your Personal Information
Do not share sensitive personal information through email, messaging apps, or online chats.
Examples include:
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Banking information
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Credit card numbers
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Social Insurance Numbers (SIN)
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Driver’s licence details
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Account passwords
Be cautious when clicking links from unknown senders, as they may lead to fraudulent websites or contain malicious software.
6. Learn to Recognize Common Scams
Scammers frequently change their tactics.
Be cautious of:
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Requests for advance payments
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Unusual payment methods
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Messages that create urgency or pressure
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Offers that seem too good to be true
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Requests for personal information
The more familiar you are with common scam techniques, the easier they are to recognize and avoid.
7. Report Suspicious Activity
If you encounter suspicious behaviour, fraudulent listings, or attempted scams, report them as soon as possible.
Reporting helps protect both you and other members of the Kijiji community.
You should also report activity if:
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A listing appears fraudulent
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A user requests prohibited payment methods
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Someone attempts to collect sensitive personal information
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You suspect account compromise or impersonation
8. Prioritize Your Personal Safety
Your safety should always come before completing a transaction.
If you ever feel uncomfortable:
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Leave the meeting location
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End communication with the other party
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Report suspicious behaviour if appropriate
No deal is worth putting yourself at risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safer to meet buyers and sellers in person?
Yes. In-person meetings allow you to inspect items, verify details, and complete transactions directly.
Should I send payment before receiving an item?
Whenever possible, inspect the item before making payment.
What information should I never share?
Never share passwords, banking information, credit card details, Social Insurance Numbers, or other sensitive personal information.
What should I do if I think I’ve been scammed?
Stop communicating with the individual, preserve any relevant messages or receipts, and report the incident through the appropriate support channels.
What should I do if I receive a suspicious message?
Do not click any links or provide personal information. Review the message carefully and report it if it appears fraudulent.
Buy and Sell with Confidence
A little caution can go a long way toward helping you stay safe online. By meeting responsibly, protecting your information, using secure payment practices, and staying alert to scams, you can help create a safer marketplace experience for everyone.