Safety
Trade safely on Zippalo
Last updated November 10, 2026
Before you meet
- Keep every message on Zippalo. Anyone asking for your phone number, email, or to “pay by gift card / Zelle / crypto” is a red flag.
- Check the seller’s ratings, reviews, and Verified ✓ badge. Run the serial number in the Serial Vault.
- Pay with Meetup Lock. Your card is only held — the seller can’t get the money until they scan your QR in person.
At the meetup
- Meet in daylight in a public place — many police stations offer safe-exchange spots. Bring a friend for big items.
- Inspect everything and test equipment before you let the seller scan your code.
- Never read your backup code over the phone or text it — Meetup Lock only releases when both phones are within about 100 feet.
If something feels wrong
- Walk away. Cancel the trade from the Meetup Lock screen and your card hold is released.
- Use “Report a problem” on the trade or ⚑ Report on any listing or profile. In an emergency, call 911.
