Buy Safe, Sell Safe: How AI Can Secure Your Transactions on Jiji, Jumia & Beyond

Buy Safe, Sell Safe: How AI Can Secure Your Transactions on Jiji, Jumia & Beyond

Online shopping has become part of everyday life in Africa from ordering gadgets on Jumia to buying second-hand phones on Jiji. But as e-commerce grows, so do the scams hiding behind it.

Every day, thousands of fake listings, cloned stores, and fraudulent “payment pending” messages circulate online, tricking buyers and sellers alike. You click a link to confirm a delivery or verify a payment and suddenly, your money or personal data is gone.

Fraudsters have become smarter, too. They now send text messages that look exactly like legitimate order confirmations or dispatch notices. Some even pose as genuine buyers, sending fake proof-of-payment screenshots that never actually reflect in your account.

It’s no longer just about shopping safely  it’s about staying alert in a digital marketplace built on trust.

How E-Commerce Scams Work

Online shopping scams commonly appear in three ways. First, fake listings lure buyers with unrealistically low prices for products that don’t exist, prompting direct payments instead of using official systems. Second, payment redirection involves scammers sending fake “confirm payment” links via SMS or messaging apps, which lead to phishing pages that steal card or bank information. Third, fraudulent notifications mimic real platform messages, such as pending payment or delivery alerts, tricking victims into sharing money or personal data. These scams are convincing because they closely copy the tone, design, and domains of legitimate platforms.

How ScamGuard Keeps You Safe

At ProtecAI, we know scammers move fast  so ScamGuard moves faster. Our AI analyses every SMS in real time to detect and flag suspicious messages before you click. It scans for common scam phrases, fake payment links, and urgent or manipulative language, while cross-checking phone numbers and URLs against known scam databases. In seconds, ScamGuard tells you when a message isn’t safe so you can shop, buy, and sell with confidence.

Smart Shopping Habits That Keep You Safe

Even with technology on your side, awareness is still your best protection.

Here are five simple habits that make all the difference:

1. Don’t pay outside official platforms.

2. Always verify sellers and buyers directly in the app.

3. Be cautious of urgent or emotional messages.

4. Double-check payment alerts before confirming delivery.

5. If a deal feels too good to be true  it probably is.

Trust, but Verify  Always

The digital marketplace connects millions across Africa every day, but safety must come first.

With ScamGuard by ProtecAI, every text, payment link, or “confirmation” message is analysed and verified before you act giving you confidence in every click.

Because safe shopping isn’t just about buying smart.

It’s about buying safe and selling safe.

ScamGuard is coming!!!!!