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Safety tips

Safety tips for Zimbabwe

Use these checks before meeting, paying, accepting work or arranging delivery. ZimbaLink connects users; it does not inspect every item or guarantee another user's identity or promises.

Before you pay for an item

  • Ask specific questions about condition, ownership, what is included and where the item can be inspected.
  • For valuable goods, inspect them in person or arrange a live video check before paying. Do not let pressure to “pay now” replace a proper check.
  • Confirm the agreed amount and currency (USD or ZiG) with the seller. A currency conversion shown in ZimbaLink is only an indicative reference.
  • After a transfer or mobile-money payment, check your own bank or mobile-money app for a completed transaction. A screenshot or message from the other person is not proof that funds reached you.
  • Be cautious of requests for extra “release”, “verification” or delivery money after an unexpected change in the deal.

Meet and arrange collection safely

  • Choose a busy public place in daylight for an exchange where that is practical; tell someone you trust where you are going.
  • For a high-value purchase, consider taking a trusted companion. Arrange your own transport and do not hand over valuables while a payment is still pending.
  • Do not share your home address or live location publicly. Confirm delivery arrangements and any fee directly before the item is sent.
  • If the other person changes the meeting place at the last minute or makes you feel unsafe, leave and report the account or listing.

Buying a vehicle or property

  • For a vehicle, inspect it and have an independent mechanic check it. Compare the chassis/VIN and registration details with the vehicle and documents, and independently verify the seller's authority to sell before paying.
  • For a house, room or rental, visit the actual property and independently verify the person’s authority to rent or sell it. Read the written terms and get qualified local advice before signing or paying a deposit.
  • Do not rely on photos, copied documents or a claimed connection alone. Pause if the seller refuses a reasonable inspection or insists on an urgent deposit.

Jobs, services and business offers

  • Check an employer or service provider's identity, location, references and scope of work. For services, agree materials, timing, price and payment stages in writing.
  • Treat a request to pay an unexpected fee to secure a job, release wages or guarantee an interview as a warning sign. Verify the opportunity through the employer's independently found contact details.
  • For supplier quotes, confirm quantity, unit, delivery town, currency and availability directly. A quote request does not guarantee a supplier response or stock.

Protect your account and report concerns

  • Never disclose your password, mobile-money PIN, bank PIN or OTP to a buyer, seller or anyone claiming to be support.
  • Keep important agreements and payment records. Do not move a conversation or payment off-platform because someone says it is required for account verification.
  • Use More options (⋯) → Report on the listing or profile when available. Reports are sent privately to ZimbaLink moderators; a report does not guarantee immediate removal or a particular outcome.
  • For an immediate threat or emergency, contact official emergency services first. ZimbaLink is not an emergency dispatch service.