Help us keep you safe. The internet is full of opportunities but also risks. To ensure your experience is secure and enjoyable, please review these important safety tips before interacting with listings, contacting vendors, or sharing information on our site. By staying informed, you help protect yourself and our community.
Before engaging with property listings:
- Always inspect properties in person before sending deposits or signing agreements.
- Verify the landlord’s or agent’s legal authority to rent or sell (title, ID, or license).
- Avoid listings that pressure you to pay quickly to “hold” a unit. This is a common scam tactic.
- Use traceable, secure payment methods. Never cash handovers without a formal receipt.
Protect yourself when applying for jobs:
- Legitimate employers will never ask for money upfront for applications, training, or materials.
- Do not share banking details, government IDs, or sensitive personal info before a formal job offer/having secured employment.
- Verify the company’s business registration or legitimate online presence before engaging.
- Watch for urgent offers that bypass interviews; these are usually fraudulent.
When hiring a freelancer:
- Clearly define scope of work, timelines, and deliverables in writing before any payments.
- Use deposits, milestone or escrow payments; avoid paying 100% upfront.
- Communicate important information through traceable channels (email or our in-platform chat) rather than unverified numbers.
- Request proof of skills or portfolio before committing to projects.
When engaging with listed businesses:
- Confirm the business is legitimate before purchasing goods or utilizing their services.
- Avoid offers that seem “too good to be true” as unrealistic pricing is often a red flag.
- Never disclose sensitive financial data (e.g., card details, passwords) via phone or email.
Note: When conducting business it is always, if in-person dialogue is necessary, it is best to meet during the day time at a secure location, preferably accompanied by a trusted individual.
Report suspicious or misleading business listings directly to YCDA Market.
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