Buy and sell secondhand safely (and why it's easier on Junkie)

Step by step

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   Step 1: Pay through checkout, not bank transfer

   Paying through Junkie checkout means the money is held safely and you're covered by buyer protection. Bank transfers to a stranger are almost impossible to get back. If a seller pushes you to pay outside the app, that's a red flag.

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   Step 2: Never pay a deposit to hold an item

   "Lots of interest, pay a deposit to hold it" is the most common Marketplace scam. On Junkie you buy through checkout, so there's nothing to hold and nothing to lose.

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   Step 3: Sellers: watch for fake payment emails

   Scammers send emails or screenshots that look like a payment or a courier booking, then ask you to click a link or pay a fee. Junkie tells you about a sale inside your Junkie account, and emails only ever come from junkie.nz. Never give anyone a code from a text message.

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   Step 4: Check who you're dealing with

   Look for the Verified badge, the seller's reviews and how long they've been on Junkie. Brand new profiles with prices that seem too good are worth a second look.

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   Step 5: Meet somewhere public for pickups

   Meet in daylight in a busy place, or bring someone with you. For big furniture, have a friend there when buyers come to your home. Pay or get paid in the app before you hand anything over.

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   Step 6: Keep the chat in Junkie

   Keeping messages in Junkie means there's a record if something goes wrong and our team can help. If someone asks to move to WhatsApp or email straight away, be careful.

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   Step 7: Report anything off

   Use Report on a listing or profile and the Junkie safety team will look at it. If you've lost money, call your bank first, then contact Netsafe.