⚠️ 1. General Safety

  ❌ Never share personal information (ID, bank details, home address) with strangers.

  💬 Use our secure messaging system until you are confident.

  🔎 Be cautious of deals that sound “too good to be true.”

🛒 2. When Buying

• 👀 Inspect the item before paying.   

• 📍 Meet in a safe, public place (shopping centre, police station, busy car park).   

• 💵 Avoid making upfront payments before seeing the product.   

• 👥 Bring a trusted friend or relative for expensive purchases (cars, property, electronics). 

💼 3. When Selling 

  
• 📍 Meet buyers in well-lit public places.   

• 🚫 Avoid inviting strangers to your home unless necessary.   

• 💳 Accept cash in ZWL$ or verified RTGS/ZIPIT/Ecocash. Confirm before handing over goods.   

• 🔒 Watch out for fake payment confirmations. Always check your bank or wallet. 

🌐 4. Online & Essential Services

   
• 📑 Ask for references or proof of registration.   

• 💰 Avoid paying full amount upfront. Use deposits + pay balance on delivery.
  
  

🏠 5. Property & Rentals

   
• 🏃 Visit the property before making payments.   

• ✅ Verify ownership at Deeds Office, council, or registered estate agent.   

• ⚠️ Be cautious of landlords/agents asking for large deposits upfront.

📄 6. Jobs & Employment

   
• 🚫 Never pay to apply for a job. Genuine employers don’t charge applicants.   

• 🔎 Verify company details via official websites or directories.   

• ⚠️ Beware of “easy money” scams with high salaries and little work. 

❤️ 7. Dating & Community

   
• 🚫 Do not share private photos or sensitive details with strangers.   

• 👥 Meet in public places for first interactions.   

• 📞 Inform a trusted friend or family member of your plans. 

🚨 8. Reporting Suspicious Activity

   
• 🛑 Report fraud, scams, or abusive behavior using the Report Ad button or by contacting our support team.   

• 👮 You may also report scams to your nearest Police Station (ZRP – Commercial Crimes Division).

    ✅ TheOpenMarketZW connects buyers and sellers, but your vigilance is key.

    Stay alert. Stay safe. Trade smart.