Safety Guidelines

Safety Guidelines for Shoppers’ Interface Users

The overwhelming majority of Shoppers’ Interface users are trustworthy and well-meaning. However, as with any online transactions, it is essential to exercise caution.

The guidelines below will help you stay safe while buying and selling on SI.

Safe In-Person Transactions

When meeting a buyer or seller in person:

                •             Choose a public meeting place – Meet in a well-lit, busy area such as a shopping mall, police station, or bank lobby.

                •             Avoid secluded places – Do not invite strangers into your home or agree to meet in isolated locations.

                •             Be cautious with high-value items – If selling or buying expensive items (e.g., electronics, jewelry, or vehicles), meet at a secure location and consider cash payments at a bank.

                •             Bring a friend or inform someone – Let a friend or family member know where you are going or have someone accompany you.

                •             Trust your instincts – If something feels off, walk away.

Taking these simple precautions helps make Shoppers’ Interface safer for everyone.

⸻

Avoiding Scams on Shoppers’ Interface

Scammers sometimes pretend to be legitimate users or trusted authorities to steal money, goods, or personal information. Here are some tips to recognize and avoid scams:

Red Flags of Scams

                •             Requests for advance payment – Do not pay before meeting the seller in person.

                •             Requests for wired money, mobile money transfers, or gift cards – Scammers often ask for payments via M-Pesa, Western Union, or PayPal.

                •             Overpayment scams – A scammer might send an excessive payment and ask you to refund the difference before their payment clears.

                •             Fake escrow services – Avoid third-party payment or escrow services unless they are verified.

                •             Too-good-to-be-true deals – Extremely low prices are often a scam tactic.

                •             Urgent or emotional requests – Scammers create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly.

Common Scams to Watch Out For

Phishing Scams

Scammers may send messages pretending to be from Shoppers’ Interface, asking you to:

                •             Click on a link to log in to your account (leading to a fake website).

                •             Send a verification code.

                •             Download an attachment or fill out a form.

⚠ SI will only ask you to verify your account via email from info@shoppersinterface.co.ke. SI will never as you to verify your account via text, or external links.

If you suspect phishing, change your password immediately and report the scam.

Email Scam Examples

Example 1: Vehicle Sale Scam

“I am selling this car because my platoon has been sent back overseas, and I need to sell it urgently. The price is low because I need a quick sale. It is in excellent condition, and I will ship it to you after payment…”

🚨 Warning Signs:

✔ Claims of being in the military, a religious leader, or a government official.

✔ Urgent requests to send money.

✔ The item is not available for viewing in person.

Example 2: Fake Online Payment Services

“I will accept payment via eBay’s secure payment system. You need to send your full name and address to initiate the deal…”

🚨 Warning Signs:

✔ Seller insists on using a third-party payment service.

✔ Requests personal details before providing more information.

Fake Job or Babysitting Scams

“I am relocating to Kenya and need a babysitter for my 3-year-old daughter. I will pay in advance. Please send me your details so I can process the payment.”

🚨 Warning Signs:

✔ The scammer is in a different location and offers upfront payment.

✔ Unclear job details and requests for bank details.

⸻

Reporting Scams on Shoppers’ Interface

If you come across fraudulent listings, emails, or messages, report them immediately.

Kenya: Who to Notify About Fraud or Scam Attempts

1. Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) – Cybercrime Unit

                •             Website: www.dci.go.ke

                •             Email: [Insert DCI Cybercrime Unit Email]

                •             Phone: [Insert DCI Cybercrime Contact]

2. Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) – Consumer Protection

                •             Website: www.ca.go.ke

3. National Kenya Police Service (NPS) – If defrauded, report to your local police station or file an online report at www.nationalpolice.go.ke.

4. M-Pesa Fraud Reporting – If you suspect mobile money fraud, report directly to Safaricom by dialing 333 or visiting a Safaricom retail outlet.

⚠ Do NOT share your M-Pesa PIN, ID number, or personal details with anyone claiming to be from SI.

⸻

Final Safety Reminders

                •             Only communicate through Shoppers’ Interface messaging tools.

                •             Never share sensitive financial information or personal details.

                •             Verify buyers and sellers before proceeding with a transaction.

                •             If in doubt, walk away.

By following these safety tips and reporting suspicious activities, you can help keep Shoppers’ Interface a safe and trusted platform for everyone.