Security Tips

At Autofiti Marketplace (autofiti.co.ke), we prioritize your safety while you buy or sell cars, vehicle parts, or automotive services. Whether you’re using our User Group plans (Free, Starter, Pro, Elite), premium features, Business Profiles, banner ads, or Sell on Behalf service, these security tips will help protect your account, transactions, and personal information. By following these guidelines, you can minimize risks and enjoy a secure experience, in compliance with the Consumer Protection Act 2012 and Data Protection Act 2019 of Kenya.

Protect Your Account

Create a Strong Password: Use a unique password with at least 12 characters, combining letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid personal details like your name or birthdate.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): If available, activate 2FA to add an extra layer of security, such as a code sent to your phone or email.
Keep Login Details Private: Never share your username, password, or 2FA codes, even with individuals claiming to represent Autofiti.
Log Out on Public Devices: Always log out after using the Platform on shared or public devices, such as at internet cafés.
Monitor Account Activity: Regularly review your dashboard for unauthorized actions, such as unfamiliar listings or Autofiti Wallet transactions. Report suspicious activity to [email protected] immediately.

Verify Listings and Transactions

Check Documentation: For cars, verify the NTSA logbook, ownership records, and service history. For parts or services, request receipts, warranties, or certifications before buying.
Inspect Items in Person: Physically inspect vehicles, parts, or service facilities before finalizing a purchase to confirm condition and authenticity.
Use Secure Payments: Pay through the Platform’s secure payment methods (e.g., M-Pesa, cards) for tracked and protected transactions. Avoid cash or unverified payment methods like direct bank transfers.
Avoid Advance Payments: Be cautious of sellers requesting full payment before inspection or delivery. For Sell on Behalf, payments are processed only after sale confirmation.
Communicate on the Platform: Use Autofiti’s messaging system for all buyer-seller interactions to maintain records and avoid scams via external apps (e.g., WhatsApp, email).

Avoid Scams and Fraud

Beware of Unrealistic Offers: Listings with unusually low prices or urgent demands may be fraudulent. Verify seller credibility, such as checking Business Profiles for verified badges (available in Elite plans).
Protect Sensitive Information: Never share bank details, PINs, or ID numbers with buyers or sellers. Autofiti will not request this information via email or phone.
Identify Red Flags: Be wary of sellers who refuse inspections, provide incomplete documentation, or pressure you to act quickly. For services, confirm the provider’s credentials.
Report Suspicious Listings: If you suspect a listing is fraudulent (e.g., stolen images or fake details), report it to [email protected] with the listing URL and details.
Use Sell on Behalf for Safety: Opt for our Sell on Behalf service to let Autofiti manage sales, reducing direct buyer interactions and ensuring secure payment handling.

Secure Your Content

Use Original Content: Upload only your own photos, text, or licensed materials for listings, Business Profiles (e.g., logos for Pro/Elite plans), or banner ads to avoid copyright issues. See Copyright Infringement Policy.
Watermark Images: Add watermarks to high-value listing images (e.g., car photos) to deter unauthorized use by scammers.
Limit Public Information: Ensure listings and Business Profiles (included in all User Group plans) share only necessary details, such as contact numbers, not personal addresses.

Stay Safe During In-Person Meetings

Choose Public Locations: Arrange inspections or handovers in safe, public places, such as near a police station or busy market. Avoid isolated areas.
Bring a Companion: Have a trusted friend or family member accompany you during meetings for added security.
Verify Identities: Request and verify the buyer’s or seller’s ID before meeting, cross-checking with listing information.
Document Transactions: Keep records of agreements (e.g., sale contracts, receipts) and take photos during item handovers for reference.

Protect Your Personal Information

Share Minimal Details: Provide only essential information in listings or Business Profiles (e.g., phone number, not home address). Elite plans offer a dedicated URL to control visibility.
Avoid Suspicious Links: Do not click links in emails or messages claiming to be from Autofiti unless verified. Contact [email protected] to confirm legitimacy.
Review Privacy Settings: Check your account settings to manage data shared with others. See Privacy Policy for details on data protection.
Secure Payment Information: Ensure payments for User Group plans, premium features, or banner ads are made through the Platform’s secure methods to avoid phishing scams.

Monitor and Report Issues

Track Wallet Activity: Regularly check your Autofiti Wallet for unexpected transactions, such as deductions for banner ads. Report discrepancies within 7 days to [email protected].
Report Security Incidents: Notify us immediately of suspected data breaches, scams, or account hacks, providing details for swift action.
Stay Informed: Review our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimer to understand your responsibilities and Autofiti’s non-liability for user-driven issues.

Tips for Businesses

Secure Business Profiles: For Pro and Elite users, ensure logos, social links, and banners are original or licensed. Use Elite’s verified badge to build buyer trust.
Monitor Ad Campaigns: Track banner ad performance (clicks or views) on your dashboard to detect unusual activity, such as excessive clicks.
Train Staff: Educate your team on scam prevention and secure account management, especially for showrooms or service providers.
Leverage Analytics: Use analytics (available in Pro/Elite plans) to identify suspicious patterns, such as fake inquiries, and adjust strategies accordingly.

Our Commitment to Security
Autofiti implements reasonable security measures, including encryption and secure payment processing, to protect your data and transactions. However, no platform is entirely risk-free. By following these tips, you help maintain a safe environment. Autofiti is not liable for losses or damages from user actions, fraud, or security breaches, as outlined in our Disclaimer.

Need Assistance?
Our support team is here to help with any security concerns. Contact us at:

Email: [email protected]

Do you have more questions? Contact us