Safety Guidelines - Sl.Thane.Estate

Safety Guidelines

Your safety is our priority. Follow these guidelines to protect yourself when buying, selling, or meeting on Sl.Thane.Estate.

Stay Safe on Sl.Thane.Estate

Sl.Thane.Estate connects thousands of buyers and sellers across Sri Lanka every day. While most transactions are safe and successful, it is important to stay vigilant. This guide will help you recognize potential scams, meet safely, and complete secure transactions.

For Buyers

  • Always inspect the item thoroughly before paying
  • Meet in a public, well-lit place with other people around
  • Bring a friend or family member when meeting a seller
  • Verify the item's condition matches the ad description
  • Ask for original receipts, documents, or warranties
  • Test electronics and vehicles before finalizing the deal
  • Never pay in full before seeing and inspecting the item
  • Use secure payment methods — avoid cash for large amounts

For Sellers

  • Meet buyers in public places — never at your home alone
  • Count cash carefully before handing over the item
  • Do not accept cheques from unknown buyers
  • Keep personal documents and valuables secure
  • Do not share your home address or banking details
  • Remove personal data from phones and electronics before selling
  • Take photos of the item and buyer's ID for high-value sales
  • Trust your instincts — if something feels wrong, walk away

Common Scams to Watch Out For

Advance Payment Fraud

The buyer or seller asks you to pay a deposit, reservation fee, or delivery charge before you have seen the item. Never send money before inspecting the product in person.

Overpayment Scam

A buyer sends a cheque or online transfer for more than the asking price and asks you to refund the difference. The original payment will bounce, and you will lose the refund amount.

Fake Delivery / Courier Scam

The seller claims they will ship the item via courier and asks for payment upfront. They may even send fake tracking numbers. Always collect items in person or use verified delivery services.

Phishing & Fake Links

Scammers send links that look like Sl.Thane.Estate login pages to steal your password. Always check the URL is exactly sl.thane.estate before entering any credentials.

Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals

If a price is significantly lower than market value, it is likely a scam. Be especially cautious with vehicles, property, and high-end electronics offered at unrealistically low prices.

Pressure Tactics

Scammers often rush you to decide quickly, claiming other buyers are interested or the deal expires soon. Take your time. A genuine seller will not pressure you into an immediate decision.

Meeting Guidelines

Do

  • Meet in busy public places (malls, coffee shops, police station parking lots)
  • Meet during daylight hours
  • Tell a friend or family member where you are going
  • Bring someone with you when possible
  • Inspect the item thoroughly before paying
  • Keep your phone charged and accessible
  • Take your own vehicle or use a known transport service

Don't

  • Meet at isolated locations or private residences
  • Meet late at night or in poorly lit areas
  • Go alone to meet someone for the first time
  • Share your home address or banking details
  • Send money before seeing the item
  • Accept cheques from unknown buyers
  • Get into the buyer's or seller's vehicle

See Something Suspicious?

If you encounter a scam, fraudulent listing, or suspicious behavior, report it immediately. Your report helps protect the entire Sl.Thane.Estate community.

Contact Us Visit FAQ

Emergency Contacts

Sri Lanka Police Emergency: 119 or 118

Cyber Crime Division: +94 11 242 2021

Report Scams: contact@sl.thane.estate