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How to spot scams on peer delivery platforms

March 2025  ·  5 min read

How to spot scams on peer delivery platforms

Peer delivery attracts a small number of bad actors. These warning signs help you identify and avoid them.

The vast majority of Sendways interactions are straightforward and honest. But peer platforms do attract bad actors, and knowing the warning signs protects both senders and travelers.

Red flags for senders. A traveler who asks to be paid outside the Sendways platform (cash, direct bank transfer, mobile money). A traveler with no reviews, recent account creation, and implausibly low fees. A traveler who becomes aggressive when asked basic questions about the route or their itinerary.

Red flags for travelers. A sender who cannot describe what is in the package. A package that was visibly opened and re-sealed. A sender who insists on meeting in a private location rather than a public place. A package that is unusually heavy relative to its stated contents.

The "too good to be true" scenario. An unusually generous sender fee for a route with low demand. Payment offered before any verification. Vague descriptions and pressure to accept quickly. These patterns appear in scam attempts on peer platforms globally.

What Sendways does to prevent scams. Identity verification on both sides creates accountability. Escrow payment means money cannot be stolen before delivery. The dispute process provides recourse. Reporting tools flag suspicious accounts for review.

What to do if you suspect a scam. Do not proceed with the transaction. Report the account through the app. If you believe a criminal offence has occurred, contact local law enforcement.

The most effective protection. Only transact with verified users who have review histories.

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