Safety Centre

Meeting in person

• Meet in a busy public place in daylight where possible.
• Take someone with you, and tell a friend where you are going.
• Inspect and test the item fully before any money changes hands.
• Trust your instincts — walk away if something feels wrong.

Paying and getting paid

• Cash on collection, or a bank transfer once you have the item, is safest.
• Never send a deposit or bank transfer to someone you have not met or verified.
• Be wary of overpayment, courier-collection and 'friends and family' payment requests.
• Sellers: let a transfer clear in your account before handing over the item.

Warning signs of a scam

• Pressure to move the conversation to WhatsApp, email or text straight away.
• A price far below market value, or a story about being abroad or in a hurry.
• Requests for gift cards, crypto or payment links you did not ask for.
• Refusal to let you inspect the item or send extra photos.

Age-restricted and regulated items

Some categories on HobbyTrade UK cover items that are lawful to sell only in specific circumstances, or only to buyers who hold the correct certificate or are over a certain age. Both buyer and seller are responsible for complying with UK law, including the Firearms Acts, knife-sales legislation and any licensing requirements.

Reporting a problem

Use the Report button on any listing, profile or message. Reports go straight to our moderation team and are confidential. If you believe a crime has taken place, contact the police on 101, or 999 in an emergency.