Safe Messaging on ShopBroker
Your safety shapes how messaging works on ShopBroker. Both buyers and sellers can start conversations: buyers can message sellers from any listing, and sellers can reach out from the transaction page once payment is secured. Here's what's built in to protect you, and how to stay safe yourself.
Built-In Protections
Privacy by Default
Partial names only: Others see your first name and last initial (e.g., "Sarah T."), not your full name
No phone or email shared: Personal contact info isn't exposed through messaging
Account required: Only verified users can send messages
Security Measures
Spam limits: We limit how fast messages can go out, which keeps spam down
Automatic filtering: We catch suspicious patterns in real-time
Code blocking: Harmful code and scripts get blocked before they reach you
Your Control
Block users: Stop unwanted communication instantly
Archive conversations: Clean up your inbox without losing records
Notification control: Choose whether to get email alerts
Best Practices
Keep Conversations on ShopBroker
Keep your conversations on ShopBroker, not over text, email, or other platforms. If something goes wrong, having the conversation here helps us step in faster.
Never Share Sensitive Info
> Keep these out of your messages: > - Full address (until you're ready for pickup) > - Bank account or card numbers > - Government ID details > - Passwords to anything
Trust Your Instincts
If a conversation feels off, it probably is. Common warning signs:
Pressure to act quickly
Requests to pay outside ShopBroker
Deals that seem too good to be true
Pushy requests for personal information
Meet Safely
If you're arranging an in-person pickup, meet in public places during daylight hours. Bring a friend along when you can.
> Pro tip: Choose a coffee shop or bank lobby with security cameras. Trust your gut. If the vibe feels off when you arrive, leave.
How to Block Someone
If you need to stop communication with someone:
Open the conversation
Tap the menu options
Select Block
Confirm your choice
Once blocked, they can't message you, and they won't know they were blocked.
If Something Goes Wrong
If you receive something harmful, suspicious, or abusive in a message, use the in-product report flow. It goes straight to our team and takes seconds.
For the full walkthrough on how to report a chat conversation, see How to Report a Listing, Seller, or Chat.
Take a screenshot before you report if you can. It helps us investigate faster.
Questions?
If you ever feel unsafe or unsure, reach out to our support team. We're here to help.