nebenan.de verifies all users to prevent fraud but warns against PayPal scams involving the "Send money to friends and family" option, as it offers no buyer protection. It is recommended to meet in person for handover, not to share sensitive information, to use secure payment methods, and to report suspicious users. nebenan.de never contacts users privately via message.
nebenan.de thrives on safe and trustworthy exchanges within the neighborhood. That’s why we verify all users during registration. Nevertheless, just like anywhere on the internet, there can be attempts at fraud. Learn here about common scams in online buying and how to protect yourself.
Example: PayPal Scam
A seller demands a PayPal payment using the "Send money to friends and family" function for the item or shipping costs. In this case, you have no buyer protection. If the item doesn’t arrive, you cannot get your money back. PayPal buyer protection only applies when using the "Send money for goods and services" option. So be cautious if a seller insists on advance payment via PayPal using the "Send money to friends and family" option. Since nebenan.de only shows you offers nearby, it’s best to simply meet in person for the handover.
You can find more scams and tips for protection from consumer advice centers, for example here.
5 Tips to Protect Yourself
Almost all purchases on nebenan.de go smoothly. If you feel unsure, these tips can help you recognize potential fraud attempts early:
- All offers on nebenan.de come from people in your immediate area. However, if a seller insists on shipping (for example, claiming they just moved), be cautious.
- Do not share personal information, especially credit card or bank details.
- Insist on a secure payment method, such as cash upon personal handover. Avoid payment methods where you have no option to reclaim your money (e.g., instant bank transfer or PayPal’s "Send money to friends and family" function). Also, make sure the account holder’s name matches the person’s name.
- Do not scan unknown QR codes or click on suspicious links. For example, someone pretending to be part of the nebenan.de team might message you privately, asking you to confirm a listing or check an alleged activity via an external link. Please note: nebenan.de will never contact you via private messages. Do not click such links.
- Report suspicious users through the reporting function or contact the team via the contact form.
We reserve the right to block or remove untrustworthy offers or users who violate our security policies. By staying vigilant, nebenan.de remains a safe place for everyone. Thank you for being part of our community!