Kijiji offers a variety of tips that are regularly reviewed and updated. Additionally, tips are
highlighted and promoted on theKijiji blog. When looking for a cell phone, there are a few things
Kijiji suggests you keep in mind that will protect you from falling prey to a scam.
 Take a screenshot. Have a copy of the Kijiji ad so you have it as a reference for the
transaction.



Check the phone before completing the transaction.
o Ways to check a phone before you buy:
 Look at the lock screen
If the iPhone offered for sale has been erased remotely or put into lost mode, it should
show either that or that it is lost or stolen on the lock screen.
 Ask the seller to reset the iPhone while you watch
If the seller refuses to do this, do not buy the phone. Claims that the password is
forgotten or they are in too much of a rush are red flags.
 For smartphones, check to see if it is legal for sale
Visit the Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Associationwebsite.
 Be suspicious of a nearly-new phone being sold without packaging or
accessories. If the seller can’t produce a receipt or even a charger, it could be a stolen
phone.
 Don’t accept a phone in a sealed box. If the seller won’t allow you to take the
item out of the box to test it, it could be faulty or even a fake.
 Take time to think before making a transaction. If the seller is trying to push
you to buy very quickly, it is often a red flag.
 Ask for a receipt. Get the seller to sign and write his/her name and
address on the back of a receipt.

 Kijiji strongly encourages users to promptly report any fraudulent ad or
instance when a stolen item is purchased.
In addition, users should follow a few simple rules when using Kijiji in general:


All transactions should be done locally and in person.



Don’t send money; conduct all transactions in person.



If something sounds too good to be true, it likely is.

  Meet in a public place with many people around, such as a
coffee shop or bring a friend with you to inspect a rental unit or
large piece of furniture.
In the unfortunate event that a stolen cell phone is purchased, we
strongly advise that users contact law enforcement, and have them
reach out to us, as we may also be able to assist in their investigation.
– Shawn McIntyre, Community Manager, Kijiji Canada.