(LANKAPUVATH | COLOMBO) – As the digital world continues to expand, the importance of staying safe online cannot be emphasised enough. With the ever-increasing prevalence of scams and fraudulent activities across the internet, ikman, Sri Lanka’s leading online marketplace, is committed to providing users with essential guidance to ensure their safety when buying, selling, or transacting online.
“Staying Safe on ikman” – A Priority for Users
ikman acknowledges that online safety is paramount for all users, whether they are buyers or sellers. To help our community stay protected, we offer the following general safety advice:
- Keep Things Local: Whenever possible, keep your transactions local. Meeting in person and checking the item before making a payment is the safest way to transact.
- Research When Applying for Jobs: When applying for a job on our platform, research the job and the employer before giving out personal information. Avoid going to remote locations for interviews.
- Exchange Item and Payment at the Same Time: Buyers should refrain from making payments before receiving an item, while sellers should not send an item before receiving payment.
- Use Common Sense: Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, such as unrealistically low prices and promises of quick money.
- Never Give Out Financial Information: This includes bank account details, eBay/PayPal info, and any other information that could be misused.
Beware of Scams and Frauds
Scams and fraudulent activities can take various forms, and ikman is dedicated to helping users recognize and avoid them. Be vigilant about the following:
- Fake Payment Services: ikman does not offer payment schemes. Report any emails claiming to provide such services and avoid using online payment services or escrow sites unless you are 100% sure they are genuine.
- Fake Information Requests: ikman never sends emails requesting your personal details. If you receive such an email, refrain from clicking through to any links, report it, and delete it.
- Fake Fee Requests: Avoid anyone asking for extra fees for buying or selling items or services. ikman never requests for payments, apart from basic services such as ad listings and ad promotions.
- Avoid Money Transfer Services: Refrain from using third-party services such as remittance services for transactions, as many scams are run through them.
Safety Measures Provided by ikman
ikman has implemented various safety measures to protect users, including:
- Email Address Protection: Your email address is not shown on your ad to protect you from spam.
- Option to Hide Phone Number: You can choose to hide your phone number while still being contacted by interested buyers via chat.
- Continuous Improvements: We consistently enhance our technology to detect and prevent suspicious or inappropriate activity.
- Blocking Repeat Offenders: We track reports of suspicious or illegal activity to prevent offenders from using the site again.
Reporting a Safety Issue
If you suspect you have been a victim of a scam, please report the situation to us immediately. We also recommend contacting your local police department if you have been cheated. While we are committed to protecting our users’ privacy, we will cooperate with law enforcement regarding fraudulent or other criminal activity.
If you find yourself in need of assistance or have any concerns regarding your online safety, our dedicated support team is here to help. You can reach out to us on weekdays from 9am to 6pm or on weekends and mercantile holidays from 8am to 5pm. To get in touch, simply give us a call on 011 2 350 350 or send us an email at [email protected]. Your online safety is our priority, and we are ready to assist you whenever you require it.
