Sana List Safety Tips – Sell & Buy Online Safely Across Kenya

Your safety is our top priority. Sana List is committed to providing a secure and trustworthy marketplace for all users across Kenya. Below are essential safety guidelines to protect yourself when buying, selling, or meeting other users.

1. General Online Shopping Safety Guidelines

• Trust your instincts. If something feels suspicious or too good to be true, it probably is.
• Always verify information such as product details, pricing, and identity of the other party.
• Use official contact channels only—avoid sharing unnecessary personal details.
• Avoid unrealistic offers or deals that promise huge discounts or quick riches.
• Do not send photos, documents, or ID copies unless absolutely necessary.

2. Safety Tips for Online Buyers

• Inspect items before paying. Always meet the seller and confirm the product works.
• Test electronics, cars, machines, and devices physically before completing a transaction.
• For vehicles, check logbooks, chassis numbers, service history, NTSA records, and ownership. Learn about NTSA verification →
• For property, verify title deeds, land search, and agent legitimacy before paying any deposit.
• Never pay before receiving the item unless dealing with a verified, trusted vendor.
• Beware of sellers who refuse physical meetings or insist on shipping only.
• Use safe public meeting points, not isolated areas.

3. Safety Tips for Online Sellers

• Meet buyers in public places such as shopping malls, petrol stations, or police stations.
• Do not hand over items until full payment is confirmed.
• Beware of fake bank messages, fake M-Pesa messages, or overpayment scams.
• Avoid sharing your home location unless necessary.
• Confirm transactions in real time via your bank or M-Pesa app.
• Do not allow buyers to test-drive your car alone—be inside the vehicle.
• For high-value items, bring a friend or colleague along.

4. Payment Safety

• Cash payments should be completed in secure public places.
• M-Pesa: Confirm via the official app or *234#, not just SMS.
• Bank transfers: Verify the receiver's identity before sending.
• Avoid escrow services you cannot verify.

5. Meeting Safety Tips

• Meet in well-lit, public, and populated places.
• For big trades (cars, machinery, bulk items), meet at:
  • petrol stations
  • shopping malls
  • police stations
  • public parking areas
• Bring a friend when meeting a stranger.
• Share your meeting plan with someone you trust.
• For home service providers (plumbers, electricians, etc.), always request proper identification.

6. Avoiding Common Scams in Kenya

7. Protecting Your Personal Information

• Do not share identity documents unless necessary.
• Do not reveal:
  • bank details
  • PINs
  • M-Pesa passwords
  • home address
• Avoid clicking suspicious links shared by unknown users. Learn how to spot fake listings →

8. Reporting Suspicious Activity

Help us keep the Sana List community safe. If you encounter suspicious users, ads, or behavior:

• Use the "Report Ad" button on the listing.
• Contact our support team: info@sanalist.co.ke
• Provide screenshots, phone numbers, or any relevant details.

9. Our Commitment to Safety

Your trust is our priority. With your vigilance and our security enhancements, we ensure a safer buying and selling experience for everyone in Kenya.