Safety Tips
⚠️ Beware of Scams
Mochimota facilitates direct transactions between users. Unfortunately, online marketplaces carry the risk of fraud.
If you are asked to pay in advance or provide a "holding deposit," it is very likely a scam. Never send money before checking the item in person.
✅ Recommended Practices
1. Meet in Person
- Meet in a busy, public place (e.g., a cafe, train station, or shopping centre).
- Always choose daytime hours for meetups.
- Bring a friend or family member along if possible.
- Trust your gut: If a meeting place feels unsafe, cancel or suggest a different location.
2. Inspect the Item
- Verify that the item matches the description and photos.
- Test electrical items to ensure they work.
- For designer goods, check for signs of authenticity.
- Do not feel pressured to buy. It is perfectly okay to walk away if the item isn't right.
3. Secure Payments
- Cash is king: It is the simplest and safest way to pay after inspection.
- Bank Transfers: Only transfer money after you have the item in your hands.
- PayPal: Avoid using "Friends & Family" for purchases; it offers no protection if things go wrong.
- Bank Security: Never share your bank login or "One-Time Passcodes" (OTP) with anyone. Your bank will never ask for these to "verify" a sale.
4. Protect Your "Magic Link"
- The "Magic Link" sent to your email is your key to managing your listing.
- Never forward this link or share it with others.
- Mochimota staff will never ask you for your Magic Link or your email login details.
❌ Red Flags to Avoid
🚫 Advance Payments
Never pay for shipping or "reserve" an item before seeing it. Scammers often use "urgent" stories to get you to send money quickly.
🚫 Shipping-Only Sellers
Be wary of sellers who refuse to meet in person and insist on shipping only, even if they claim to live nearby.
🚫 Pressure Tactics
Don't be swayed by "I have another buyer waiting" or "I'm leaving the country today." These are often used to stop you from thinking clearly.
What to Do If Something Goes Wrong
If You Have Been Scammed
- Contact your bank immediately: If you paid via transfer, they may be able to freeze the funds.
- Report to Action Fraud: The UK’s national fraud reporting centre. Call 0300 123 2040 or visit actionfraud.police.uk.
- Report to us: Use the "Report" button on the listing so we can ban the user and protect others.
A Note to Our Community
We know that Japanese hospitality and politeness are at the heart of our community. However, your safety comes first. Do not worry about being "rude" by asking many questions or walking away from a deal that feels suspicious. Authentic sellers will understand and respect your caution.