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Stay safe when buying & selling

International students are frequently targeted in second-hand marketplace scams. Read this before you buy or sell anything.

Safe payment methods

Pay by bank transfer ONLY after you have seen and are happy with the item in person. Cash on collection is safest. Never use gift cards, crypto, or wire transfers — these are irreversible and cannot be refunded.

Safe meeting places

Meet at your university main building, student union, a coffee shop, or another busy public place. Never go to a stranger's home alone for a first meeting. Tell a friend where you are going.

Luodi's role

Luodi provides this marketplace as a convenience for students. We do not verify listings, hold payments, or mediate disputes. All transactions are between users only. Luodi is not liable for any loss, damage, or fraud arising from marketplace transactions.

If you have been scammed

Contact Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040. Also report to your bank immediately — if you paid by bank transfer, they may be able to recall the payment. Keep all screenshots and messages as evidence.

⚠️ Red flags

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Never pay before seeing the item — no exceptions. If a seller asks for payment upfront, it is a scam.

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Price too cheap? Be suspicious. An iPhone for £50 is never real.

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Always meet in a public place — your university library, a campus café, or a busy high street.

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Never share your bank login, PayPal password, or personal documents with a buyer/seller.

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Be wary of buyers who offer to pay more than asking price — a common fraud setup.

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If you are pressured to decide quickly, that is a red flag. Real sellers are patient.

Report to Action FraudCitizens Advice — scams