Advice to avoid online classified fraud

It is the nature of classifieds both online and offline to be targeted by fraudsters. It is up to users to protect themselves from such threats. Dubai Donkey is an open and free classified listing service. While all is done to make sure the listings are of the highest quality, we suggest some common sense rules to follow to help protect yourself from the majority of potential scams:-

• Only do deals in which you can meet the buyer/seller locally to verify their identity and see the goods
• If a deal sounds too good to be true, then it probably is!
• Do not transfer money using any of the transfer services such as Western Union, Moneygram, Bank Transfer etc.
• Ensure that cheques, money orders etc. are real and have been written correctly
• Do not reveal personal financial information such as bank account numbers etc.
• Avoid deals involving shipping agents, escrow services etc.
• Dubai Donkey is never part of a transaction - We do not handle any payments, certify users or guarantee transactions.

What warning signs should I be looking out for?

Exercise extreme caution if any of the following in occurs in dealings with a potential buyer/seller:-

-Buyer/Seller's request is coming from another country -A request for payment through any money transfer service -An excuse for inability to meet face-to-face before making the transaction -A buyer requesting that you send the goods before you receive payment -An assertion to having a friend or agent who can pay you more than the real value of your goods.

Who should I notify about suspected fraud or scam attempts?

Report the listing to Dubai Donkey By Email

• Mark the subject as ''Report a Listing''
• Include the 6 digit listing number than identifies the advert
• Add as much detail as possible
• Add we will take the appropriate action [NB - add a new subject line to http://www.dubaidonkey.com/ContactUs.aspx
  call ''Report a Listing'']
  

Report the matter to the Police.