When using PayPal, it’s important to choose the right payment type, especially when buying from someone you don’t know.
⚠️ Be Careful with “Friends & Family” or “Gift” Payments
If a seller asks you to pay via PayPal Friends & Family (sometimes called “Gift”), think twice.
By choosing this option, you are opting out of PayPal’s Buyer Protection, which means:
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You will not be covered if the item isn’t delivered.
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You cannot open a dispute or claim a refund through PayPal.
This option should only be used for people you personally know and trust — not for online purchases.
âś… The Safer Way to Pay
If paying through PayPal, always select “Paying for Goods and Services.”
This activates PayPal’s Buyer Protection — which helps you recover your money if:
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Your item never arrives, or
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The seller sends something significantly different from what was advertised.
🚫 What’s Not Covered
Even with Buyer Protection, PayPal does not cover every item.
Ineligible categories include:
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Motor vehicles (cars, motorcycles, caravans)
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Aircraft or boats
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Industrial or heavy machinery
Always check PayPal’s full Buyer Protection Policy before sending any payment.
🧠Stay Smart, Stay Safe
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Never send “Friends & Family” payments to strangers.
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Always review the listing carefully before paying.
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Use DoneDeal’s Message Centre to communicate securely.
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For more advice, visit our full Safety Guide.