The rule to remember
Stay in Govoir messaging
We recommend keeping your exchanges in Govoir messaging for as long as possible.
Avoid immediately sharing your phone number, home address, or other private information. First take time to talk with the other person and check that the transaction looks genuine.
Be especially careful when someone insists on continuing the discussion immediately on WhatsApp, Telegram, or another platform.
Before leaving Govoir
- Keep the conversation in Govoir messaging at the start of the exchange.
- Do not immediately give your number, address, or other private information.
- Be wary of anyone who insists on switching immediately to WhatsApp or Telegram.
Payment and inspection
Never pay before you have seen the item. Govoir does not offer an online payment system for purchases between users.
Before you pay
- Meet the seller.
- See the item in person.
- Check its condition and how it works.
- Compare the item with its description and photos.
- Pay only when you are satisfied.
Avoid deposits, down payments, or remote payments to someone you do not know.
Inspect the item carefully. For a phone, computer, or electronic device, test its main features as much as possible.
For a valuable product, ask if needed for an invoice, proof of purchase, a serial number, or any other document that helps verify its origin.
If a seller refuses to let you inspect the item properly, we advise you not to continue the transaction.
Beware of fake payments
If you are the seller, do not hand over your item just because the buyer shows you:
- a screenshot;
- a confirmation SMS;
- an alleged transfer receipt.
Check yourself that the money has actually been credited to your account before handing over the item.
Choose a safe meeting place
Prefer a public, busy, and well-lit place.
For a high-value transaction
- Avoid isolated places.
- Prefer meeting during the day.
- Tell someone you trust.
- Take someone with you if you feel it is necessary.
Protect your personal information
Never share the following with another user:
- your Govoir password;
- your Mobile Money codes;
- your PIN;
- a confirmation code received by SMS;
- your banking credentials;
- your security codes.
If you sell or buy
If you are selling an item
Describe your product accurately and honestly.
Mention any defects, use real photos, and never provide false information about the condition or origin of a product.
At the meeting, let the buyer check the item before the transaction.
If you are buying an item
Do not let yourself be pushed into deciding quickly.
Ask every necessary question before the meeting, then check for yourself that the item matches what you were shown.
You remain free to walk away from the purchase if something feels wrong.
Beware of offers that look too good
An abnormally low price can be a warning sign. Be careful when:
- the price is well below the market;
- the seller refuses questions;
- they pressure you to pay quickly;
- they refuse a meeting;
- their explanations are inconsistent;
- the photos look as if they come from another site.
If in doubt, walk away from the transaction.
Before a transaction, look at the information available on the other person’s profile.
A recent account is not necessarily fraudulent, but several suspicious elements together should make you more cautious.
Reports and scams
If you come across a listing or a user that seems fraudulent, use the reporting feature available on Govoir.
You can also contact us at contact@govoir.com.
Keep the messages, listing information, and any evidence so we can review the report more easily.
If you think you have been scammed
If you think you have been the victim of fraud:
- stop all exchanges with the person;
- keep the messages and evidence you have;
- report the account to Govoir immediately;
- contact your payment operator if money was sent;
- when the situation warrants it, contact the competent authorities.
The Govoir rule
Chat on Govoir. Meet the seller. Check the item. Pay only after you have checked it.