How to Buy Safely on Maaru.lk — Buyer Safety Guide
Practical steps to buy vehicles, property, phones and electronics safely on Maaru.lk. Verify sellers, spot warning signs, and inspect before you pay.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1
Check the seller's badges
Look for the ID Verified badge (NIC-verified) and the Trusted Seller badge (4.5+ rating, 3+ reviews) before contacting a seller, especially for high-value items.
- 2
Compare against the market price
Maaru.lk automatically flags listings priced well below the category median with a price alert. Treat unusually cheap deals with extra caution.
- 3
Talk before you meet
Use the built-in Chat, Call or WhatsApp buttons to ask questions first. Be wary of sellers who avoid calls or push to move off-platform immediately.
- 4
Inspect in person before paying
Never send full payment before seeing or test-driving the item. Meet in a safe public place, or the seller's verified address, in daylight.
- 5
Report anything suspicious
If a listing uses stock photos, pressures you to pay upfront, or the seller disappears after a deposit, report it via the feedback button so it can be reviewed.
Pro Tips
- ✓Bring a friend or family member when viewing high-value items like vehicles or property.
- ✓For vehicles, confirm the CR book (registration document) name matches the seller's NIC.
- ✓For property, verify the deed with a lawyer before making any advance payment.
- ✓Every live listing on Maaru.lk has passed automated content moderation — but always use your own judgement too.
- ✓Never wire money for an item you haven't seen, especially for 'overseas seller' or 'customs release' stories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Maaru.lk verify every seller?
Sellers can complete NIC verification to earn an ID Verified badge, and build a Trusted Seller badge through reviews. Look for both on high-value purchases.
What if a price looks too good to be true?
Maaru.lk shows an automatic price alert when a listing is far below the category median — treat those listings with extra caution and verify in person.
Can I pay through Maaru.lk directly?
No. Maaru.lk connects buyers and sellers directly; payment happens between you. Always inspect the item before paying.
What should I do if I suspect a scam?
Use the feedback button on the site to report the listing immediately, and stop all contact and payment with that seller.