Safety Guidelines

Stay safe while buying and selling on UniMart

Verify Sellers & Buyers

• Look for the verification badge (blue checkmark) next to usernames - verified users have been approved by our admin team
• Check the seller's profile details and read reviews if available
• Confirm the seller's university matches the listing location
• Message the seller first to ask questions before committing to meet
• Trust your instincts - if something feels off, don't proceed

Meet in Safe Locations

• Always meet on campus in public areas with security presence
• Recommended spots: main entrance, cafeteria, library, sports complex, student center
• Meet during daylight hours when the campus is busy
• Never meet off-campus or in isolated areas
• Avoid meeting in dorm rooms or secluded campus locations
• Consider bringing a trusted friend with you

Before Meeting - Checklist

• Read the full product description carefully
• Check all product images for condition and details
• Ask specific questions about functionality, damage, or defects
• Request additional photos if needed - legitimate sellers won't mind
• Confirm the exact meeting time and location in advance
• Verify the seller's contact information is working

Payment Safety

• Never pay before seeing the item in person
• Bring exact change or arrange payment method beforehand
• Accepted payment methods: EcoCash, bank transfer, cash
• Inspect the item thoroughly before handing over payment
• For expensive items, test functionality before paying
• Ask for proof of ownership (like receipt) for high-value electronics
• Never give out banking details or passwords to anyone on UniMart

Spot Common Scams

• Too good to be true prices - unusually low prices are a red flag
• Pressure to rush - legitimate sellers won't force quick decisions
• Asking for payment before viewing - never trust sellers who request this
• Fake verification badges - check username matches seller claims
• Requesting payment methods outside the platform - use in-app messages
• Stock photos as listing images - ask for photos with the item dated
• Asking for shipping or delivery - UniMart is local campus only trading

Protect Your Account

• Use a strong, unique password for your UniMart account
• Never share your login details with anyone, including staff
• Enable two-factor authentication if available
• Verify emails from UniMart - check they come from official domain
• Don't respond to suspicious messages asking for account information
• Change your password regularly, especially after connecting from public WiFi
• Log out after each session on shared computers

Smart Messaging

• Always use UniMart's messaging system, never share personal contact details initially
• Document conversations - screenshots can be evidence if issues arise
• Avoid sensitive information in messages (personal IDs, full phone numbers)
• Be polite but professional - keep conversations focused on the item
• If a seller or buyer becomes hostile or rude, stop communicating and report them
• Don't share your full real name until you're comfortable

Inspect Products Carefully

• Electronics & Phones: Test all functions (screen, camera, speakers, buttons)
• Furniture: Check for structural damage, stains, and functionality
• Books & Textbooks: Verify condition, look for water damage, check all pages present
• Clothing: Check for stains, tears, or wear beyond description
• Appliances: Ensure they power on and run properly
• Ask questions if anything doesn't match the description
• Don't be afraid to walk away if condition doesn't match

Report Issues & Unsafe Behavior

• Found a scam or had a bad experience? Report immediately to support@unimart.co.zw
• Include: item listing, seller/buyer username, problem description, and any evidence
• Report listings with prohibited items (weapons, fake goods, etc.)
• Report harassment, threats, or aggressive behavior
• Report fake profiles or suspicious accounts
• Keep all evidence (screenshots, messages, photos)
• Our moderation team reviews all reports within 24-48 hours

Emergency & Legal

• If you experience theft or assault, report to campus security immediately
• If a crime occurs, report to local police and provide them platform details
• UniMart is not responsible for items in transactions - trades are at your own risk
• For serious incidents, contact: support@unimart.co.zw with police report reference
• Don't attempt to handle security issues alone - involve authorities if necessary

Remember