Safety and scams

Most people are honest, but a few simple rules keep you safe.

Never pay in advance

Do not pay a deposit for a room, a car or an item you have not seen. Do not pay a Kaution (rental deposit) without a written rental contract.

Do not open “secure payment” links from strangers, do not pay with gift cards (Paysafe, Steam) and never share codes you receive by SMS.

For handovers choose public, well-lit places. Check the item before you pay.

A serious employer never asks you for money to hire you and gives you a written contract (Arbeitsvertrag).

If a message contains words often used in scams, we mark it in red. Be extra careful.

If an ad looks suspicious, use the “Report” button on the ad page.