How to buy safely on WhatsApp and avoid scams

Buying through WhatsApp and social media is quick, and most sellers are honest. But once you have sent money, it is hard to get back. A few checks before you pay protect you from nearly every common scam.

Warning signs

Slow down if you see any of these:

• A price far below everyone else’s.
• Pressure to pay now, because “someone else is coming”.
• A deposit asked for before you can see the item.
• A seller who will not meet, take a call or show the item on video.
• A payment name that does not match the seller or business.

Before you pay

Build these into every purchase, however friendly the seller seems:

• See the item in person where you can, and test it.
• Ask for a video call or new photos with today’s date on paper if it is far away.
• Meet in a busy public place during the day.
• Agree the price, delivery and returns in writing, in the chat.
• Keep your messages and M-Pesa confirmation.

For cars and land

High-value purchases need more care. For a vehicle, confirm the logbook and its ownership through official records before paying. For land or property, carry out an official search and use a qualified professional. Never rely on photos of documents alone.

If something goes wrong

Stop sending money. If you paid by M-Pesa, contact Safaricom straight away, because a quick report can sometimes help. Keep your evidence and report the matter to the police. If the seller was on Scout, tell us too, so we can review them.

A note on Scout

Overten Scout shows you who sells what, but it does not guarantee any item or seller. It does not hold your money, and every purchase is between you and the seller. Do these same checks with anyone you find through it.