Safety & Trust

DrivenMarket is built for serious handlers. That means we take the safety of every transaction — and every animal — seriously. Here's how we protect you.

How We Keep You Safe

Verified Sellers

Sellers go through identity and payment verification via Stripe Connect before they can receive payouts. Verified badges are displayed on seller profiles and listings.

Secure Payments

All payments are processed by Stripe — a PCI DSS Level 1 certified provider. We never store your card details. Funds are held in escrow until you confirm receipt.

Buyer Protection

If an item doesn't arrive or isn't as described, raise a dispute within 7 days of the auto-release date. Our team reviews evidence from both parties and issues a fair resolution.

Encrypted Messaging

All buyer–seller communication happens inside DrivenMarket's secure messaging system. Never share personal contact details before a transaction is complete.

Listing Moderation

Our team reviews flagged listings and removes anything that violates our guidelines — including counterfeit goods, stolen items, and listings that breach animal welfare law.

Escrow & Payouts

Seller payouts are only released after the buyer confirms receipt or the 5-day auto-release window closes. This protects both parties and prevents fraud.

Buyer Safety Tips

Follow these guidelines to protect yourself on every purchase.

Always communicate through DrivenMarket's messaging system — never move to WhatsApp or email before completing a purchase.

Check the seller's profile: look for the verified badge, review history, and how long they've been on the platform.

Read the listing description carefully. If something is unclear, ask the seller before buying.

Never pay via bank transfer, PayPal Friends & Family, or cash. Only use DrivenMarket's secure checkout.

Inspect items promptly on arrival. You have 7 days from auto-release to raise a dispute.

If a deal seems too good to be true — it probably is. Report suspicious listings immediately.

For high-value items, ask the seller for additional photos or a short video before purchasing.

Seller Safety Tips

Protect your account and your buyers by following these best practices.

Complete your Stripe Connect onboarding to receive payouts. Unverified sellers cannot withdraw funds.

Use accurate, detailed descriptions and real photos of the actual item — not stock images.

Respond to buyer messages promptly. Slow responses lead to disputes and negative reviews.

Ship items within the timeframe stated in your listing. Update the tracking number as soon as available.

Do not attempt to move transactions off-platform. This voids buyer protection and may result in account suspension.

Disclose any defects, wear, or damage honestly. Misrepresentation is grounds for a full refund.

Keep proof of postage. In the event of a dispute, tracking evidence is essential.

Red Flags to Watch For

If you notice any of the following, proceed with caution or report the listing.

Seller asks you to pay outside the platform
High
Price is significantly below market value
High
Seller pressures you to act quickly
High
No reviews and recently created account
Medium
Stock photos instead of real item photos
Medium
Vague or copy-pasted description
Medium
Seller refuses to answer specific questions
Medium
Requests personal contact details before purchase
Medium

Frequently Asked Questions

Report a Listing

Seen something suspicious? Report it and our team will investigate within 24 hours.

Report a Listing →

Contact Trust & Safety

For urgent safety concerns, reach our dedicated trust team directly.

trust@drivenmarket.co.uk →