Stay Safe from Online Scams

Most listings on Swaply Ads are posted by genuine, trustworthy people, and many users complete excellent deals every day. However, as with any online marketplace, there may be individuals who attempt to scam others. Protect yourself by following these important safety tips.

Our Safety Tips

• Meet in person whenever possible. Only do business with people you can meet face-to-face.

• Avoid anonymous money transfers. Never send money through Western Union, MoneyGram, or other untraceable payment systems.

• Don’t send money or goods abroad. Stay local to reduce risk.

• Do not accept cheques. They are often used in scams and may bounce later.

• Verify the other person’s details. Ask for their full name, address, and phone number, and confirm through another reliable source.

• Keep records. Save copies of all emails, messages, listings, and any communication.

• Trust your instincts. If a deal sounds “too good to be true,” it probably is.

How to Spot a Scam

Many scams share one or more of these warning signs:

• The person claims to be abroad or “currently traveling.”

• They refuse to meet in person.

• They insist on using Western Union, MoneyGram, or cheques for payment.

• Messages are written in poor or broken English/French.

• Responses feel copy-pasted or generic.

• The offer is unrealistically cheap or profitable.

🔒 Remember: Your safety comes first. If something feels suspicious, walk away from the deal and report it to info@swaplyads.com.