Buying Safely on EirFair

Buying through an online marketplace should be simple and straightforward. Most users act in good faith, but when buying from someone you do not know, it is always worth taking a few basic precautions.

1. Keep communication on EirFair where possible

When contacting a seller for the first time, use EirFair Messages where possible.

Be cautious if a seller immediately:

• insists on moving the conversation to WhatsApp, Telegram, email or another service;
• sends you external links;
• asks you to complete the entire transaction outside EirFair;
• pressures you to make a quick decision.

Using another messaging service does not automatically mean that something is wrong. However, pressure to move away from EirFair very early in the conversation can be a warning sign.

2. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true

Take extra care if:

• the price is significantly lower than similar listings;
• the seller demands immediate payment;
• you are offered a special price only if you pay straight away;
• the seller claims to be abroad and cannot show you the item;
• you are asked to pay an urgent deposit to reserve the item.

If an offer seems unusually good, take extra time to check the item and the seller before proceeding.

3. Be careful with payment and delivery links

Be particularly cautious with links claiming to be for:

• payment;
• delivery or courier services;
• Buyer Protection;
• escrow services;
• account verification;
• receiving or refunding money.

Never provide the following through a link sent by another user:

• your online banking password;
• your card PIN;
• one-time security or verification codes;
• your EirFair password;
• other sensitive banking information.

If you are unsure about a link, do not open it.

4. Check the item before paying

Where possible, inspect the item before making payment.

Before buying:

• read the listing description carefully;
• review the photos;
• ask the seller questions;
• request additional photos if something is unclear;
• check the condition of the item;
• make sure the item matches the listing.

The more expensive the purchase, the more care you should take before completing the transaction.

Do not allow anyone to pressure you into making a purchase before you are comfortable.

5. Be careful with deposits and advance payments

Take extra care when you are asked to send money in advance for:

• reserving an item;
• delivery;
• insurance;
• holding an item for you;
• other unexpected fees.

Advance payments can involve additional risk, particularly if you have not seen the item or do not know the seller.

A deposit is not automatically a sign of fraud, but you should understand the risk before sending money.

6. Meet safely

If you are meeting a seller in person:

• choose a public place where practical;
• meet during daylight hours where possible;
• tell a friend or family member where you are going;
• consider bringing someone with you for higher-value purchases;
• avoid carrying more cash than necessary;
• leave if the situation makes you feel uncomfortable or suspicious.

You are never obliged to continue with a transaction.

7. Do not rely only on screenshots

Screenshots and images can be altered or falsified.

This may include:

• payment screenshots;
• banking screenshots;
• delivery confirmations;
• documents;
• email confirmations.

Where important information can be independently verified, check it yourself before completing the transaction.

This is especially important for higher-value purchases.

8. Protect your personal information

For a normal marketplace purchase, another user should not need your:

• online banking password;
• PIN;
• one-time verification code;
• full card details;
• PPS Number;
• passport or other identity documents without a genuine reason.

If someone asks for an unusual amount of personal information, stop and consider whether it is genuinely necessary for the transaction.

9. Know who you are buying from

Your rights may differ depending on whether you are buying from:

• a Private Seller, or
• a Business / Trader.

Consumer protections that apply when buying from a business may not apply in the same way when buying from a private individual.

When buying from a private seller, it is especially important to check the item carefully before completing the transaction.

10. Do not let anyone rush you

Consider stopping the transaction or carrying out further checks if the seller:

• keeps changing their story;
• avoids reasonable questions;
• refuses to show the item;
• demands urgent payment;
• sends suspicious links;
• asks for confidential information;
• proposes an unusually complicated payment or delivery arrangement.

If something does not feel right, stop and check again. You are not required to continue with a transaction.

Something suspicious?

If you notice suspicious behaviour or believe something may be wrong, use EirFair’s support and reporting options.

Security & Fraud

Use this for suspected scams, suspicious behaviour, phishing or suspicious payment requests.

Report an Ad

Use this when your concern relates to a specific listing.

Report Illegal Content

Use this if you believe specific content on EirFair is illegal.

Get Help

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