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Safety guide
Sell safely
via Lokona.
Lokona is built around trust, but the safest transactions happen when both sides follow a few simple principles. Here's everything you need to know.
Lokona does not process payments.
All payments occur directly between buyers and sellers. Lokona will never ask you to send money in advance, and any person claiming to be "Lokona escrow" or asking for a deposit before a meetup is attempting fraud.
For sellers
How to sell safely, step by step.
Create an accurate listing
Upload real photos of the actual item, not stock images. Write an honest description including any defects or wear. Set a fair price. A transparent listing builds trust before you even speak to a buyer.
Communicate only within Lokona
Keep all negotiation and coordination on the Lokona platform. This creates a clear, timestamped record of what was agreed, price, condition, and pickup details. Never move to WhatsApp or another channel before the sale is confirmed.
Verify the buyer is real
Before agreeing to meet, check that the buyer has an account with activity. A profile with zero history and a just-registered account asking you to rush a sale should raise caution.
Meet in a public place
Choose a busy, well-lit location, a shopping centre, petrol station, or market. Never meet in a private home or an isolated location, especially for high-value items.
Bring support for big-value items
For high-value items (electronics, vehicles, jewellery), bring a friend or family member. Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return.
Agree on payment before you hand over the item
Confirm the payment method and amount before transferring the item. Count cash in front of the buyer. If using mobile money, wait for the confirmation SMS before handing over the goods.
Record the transaction on Lokona
After the sale, mark the item as sold on your dashboard and select the buyer. This triggers a confirmation request to the buyer and, once confirmed, opens the review window, building your reputation.
For buyers
How to buy safely, step by step.
Research before you reach out
Check the seller's verification badge, review score, and completed transaction count. A Verified Seller (orange badge) has confirmed their National ID. A Verified Business (blue badge) is a registered company. These are strong trust signals.
Ask questions and get answers on-platform
Use Lokona messaging to ask about condition, specs, and any defects. A trustworthy seller will answer honestly. If a seller is vague or pushy, treat that as a warning sign.
Never pay in advance
Lokona does not process or hold payments. If someone asks you to send money before meeting, via mobile money, bank transfer, or any method, this is a scam. Legitimate sellers on Lokona meet in person first.
Inspect the item before paying
Test electronics, check for damage, verify model numbers. If it's not as described, you are under no obligation to proceed. Walk away.
Meet in public
The same rule applies to buyers. Choose a public, busy location. If the seller insists on a private address, reconsider.
Confirm the transaction honestly
After purchase, confirm the transaction in the app. Only confirm if you actually bought the item. This confirms the seller's reputation, and unlocks the review system for both of you.
Warning signs
Red flags to watch for.
If you notice any of these, do not proceed. Report the listing or user via the app.
The seller asks you to pay before meeting.
The price is dramatically lower than market value for no apparent reason.
The seller pushes you to move the conversation off Lokona immediately.
Photos look like stock images or appear to be from a different source.
The account was just created and has no transaction history.
The seller asks for personal details (ID number, bank PIN, home address) before meeting.
There is unexpected urgency, "I need to sell today, deposit now."
The item for sale does not match the seller's profile or location.
Need to report something?
Use the "Report" button on any listing or profile. Our trust team reviews every report. You can also contact us directly at info@lokona.com.
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