If there’s one thing I’ve learned in running local WhatsApp groups, it’s that not every person selling something is truly in it for business. Some are just looking for their next target. Over the past few months, I’ve watched decent people lose their hard-earned money because they trusted someone who was never running a real business in the first place. And every time this happens, it hurts the credibility of our entire local economy.

That’s why I launched Local Reviews. It was never just about listing businesses. It was about protecting our people, one verified listing at a time. I want us to trade with each other with confidence again, without constantly fearing that we’re being played.

Still, the reality is that some scams are smart. They don’t look like scams at first. They often come dressed in charm, convenience, and urgency. That’s why spotting the signs early is so important.

If a business avoids giving out a physical address or keeps making excuses about meeting in person, that’s a red flag. Genuine businesses know that trust matters. They don’t operate in the shadows. They’re not scared of transparency. But scammers? They’d rather stay invisible.

Another thing I’ve seen too often is the pressure to pay quickly. “Special ends today,” “last item left,” or “I have other people waiting.” These are classic phrases designed to make you panic into payment. When people are pushed to act fast, they usually don’t take time to verify. And that’s exactly what the scammer wants.

There’s also the issue of inconsistent communication. One minute the seller is polite and attentive, and the next they disappear for hours or become rude when questioned. That flip in behavior is a warning. Real businesses maintain professional communication because they care about repeat customers. Scammers don’t. Once they get your money, they have no reason to be nice anymore.

I’ve noticed many scammers don’t accept secure payment options like EFT or card payments through reputable platforms. Instead, they ask for cash deposits, cellphone banking, or worse — send-a-money services with no paper trail. This method of operation is designed to leave no evidence. Once the money is gone, so are they.

Then there’s the issue of reviews — or the lack of them. Ask them where past buyers can vouch for their service. Ask if they are listed on Local Reviews. A trustworthy business will point you to real feedback and public records of their work. A scammer? They’ll dodge the question or block you for asking. That should tell you all you need to know.

What hurts me most is that these scams aren’t always committed by strangers. Sometimes, they come from people who live right here in Germiston or Alberton, pretending to be something they’re not. That’s why I’ve become so invested in creating a space where local sellers can prove themselves through verification, and buyers can finally have peace of mind.

Through Local Reviews, I’m not just trying to catch the scammers. I’m giving honest business owners a chance to stand out for the right reasons. And more importantly, I’m giving buyers the tools to choose safety over sorrow.

If you’re running a real business, don’t be afraid to get verified. Let’s rebuild trust in our communities, one transparent transaction at a time. And if you’re a buyer, remember — trust is not something to hand out casually. Make it something people must earn.