Summary
Meet in person. Pay and collect face-to-face.
Keep your chats in the DoneDeal Message Centre.
Only trust cleared funds in your own bank account.
Never share passwords, PINs or verification codes.
If a deal feels wrong, walk away.
Our Two Golden Rules
Deal Locally
Whenever possible, meet in person and exchange the item and payment face-to-face.
Walk away if the other person:
Refuses to meet
Insists on shipping arrangements
Asks for a deposit in advance
Suggests a courier service to handle payment and delivery
A genuine deal won’t rush you or overcomplicate the process. This one step helps avoid the vast majority of fraud.
Keep Conversations in the DoneDeal Message Centre
Keep all communication with buyers and sellers in the DoneDeal Message Centre. Fraudsters often try to move the chat to text, email or other apps. Be wary if someone asks you to.
Common Fraud to Watch For
Fake Payment or Shipping Links
Fraudsters may send links that pretend to be from DoneDeal, PayPal or delivery companies.
Do not click suspicious links.
Do not share payment or personal details.
DoneDeal will never ask for payment information outside our official platform.
Fake “payment sent” screens: Some fraudsters use manipulated banking apps to show a false “payment sent” screen when they collect an item or vehicle. Never rely on screenshots or on-screen confirmations. Only trust cleared funds that you can see in your own bank account.
Phishing Messages, Emails and Scam Calls
Be cautious of texts, emails or calls that claim to be from banks, DoneDeal or payment providers and ask for login details, card information or verification codes.
Fraudsters may:
Send emails with links to fake login pages
Text urgent messages about “account issues”
Call you and pretend to be from your bank or DoneDeal
Claim there is suspicious activity on your account
Pressure you to act immediately
Always:
Check the sender’s email address carefully
Look for spelling mistakes or unusual formatting
Never share passwords, PINs or one-time verification codes
Hang up and contact the organisation directly, using the number or website on their official site
DoneDeal will never call you to ask for payment, your password, bank details or security codes.
Overpayment Fraud
A buyer may say they sent too much money by mistake and ask you to refund the difference.
In many cases:
The original payment has not cleared.
The payment is reversed later.
Only issue a refund once the cleared funds are fully visible in your own account.
Fake Courier or Escrow Services
Fraudsters may say they will “hold” your funds securely until delivery.
DoneDeal does not operate a delivery or escrow service. Any such claim is fraudulent.
Unrealistically Low Prices
If a price is far below market value, proceed with caution. If a deal seems too good to be true, it usually is.
Buying a Car? Choose Confidence
For extra peace of mind, consider buying from a DoneDeal Trusted Dealer.
You get:
Verified dealership profiles
Transparent listings
Warranties and aftercare
Vehicle history checks and reviews
Practical Safety Tips
Never share bank login details, verification codes or copies of ID.
Avoid paying deposits for items you have not seen in person.
Trust your instincts.
If something feels wrong, step back. You are never obliged to proceed.
If You Suspect Fraud
Step 1: Stop communication immediately.
Step 2: Report the ad or message on DoneDeal.
Step 3: If you shared payment details, contact your bank without delay.
Step 4: Consider reporting the matter to An Garda Síochána.
For more guidance, read our full safety resources.
Buying and selling online should feel straightforward and secure. Simple precautions help keep it that way.