Skip to content
SokoSwiftUK

Safety centre

Buy and sell safely

Most people are honest, but a few aren’t. These simple habits protect you every time.

When you’re buying

  • Meet in a busy public place in daylight, or bring someone with you.
  • Check the item works and matches the ad before you pay.
  • For cars, check the MOT history and V5C logbook on GOV.UK and do a history check.
  • Pay on collection. Never pay by bank transfer, gift card or crypto to someone you haven’t met.
  • For rentals, view the property in person and never pay a deposit before you’ve seen it and checked the landlord.

When you’re selling

  • Never share your full address in the ad. Agree a meeting place in the chat.
  • Check money has actually arrived in your bank account before handing anything over.
  • Ignore anyone offering to pay more than your asking price.
  • Don’t click payment links sent by buyers.
  • If you’re selling from home, have someone else there.

Common scams to watch for

Bank transfer before viewing

The seller asks you to pay by bank transfer, gift card or crypto before you've seen the item. Genuine sellers let you see it first.

Moving to WhatsApp or email

Someone pushes to continue the chat elsewhere. Keeping chats on SokoSwift means there's a record if something goes wrong.

Fake payment confirmations

A 'buyer' sends a screenshot or email saying they've paid, or a link to 'receive' money. Always check your actual bank account.

Overpayment and refunds

A buyer 'accidentally' pays too much and asks for the difference back. The original payment later bounces.

Courier will collect

A buyer you've never spoken to says their courier will collect and pay. This is a common setup for fake payment scams.

Too good to be true

Brand-new phones, cars or rentals well below market price, often with a sad story and pressure to act fast.

Something wrong?

Report it to us: use the Report button on any ad or seller profile. Reports are private and reviewed by our team within 24 hours.

Lost money? Call your bank straight away using the number on the back of your card, then report it to Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040 (England, Wales and Northern Ireland) or Police Scotland on 101.

In danger? Always call 999.