P2P trading safety checklist (12 rules)
Most P2P losses come from breaking a few basic rules. Follow this safety checklist on every trade and you avoid the large majority of scams, disputes and frozen accounts.
For every trade
- Trade only on a major exchange with escrow protection.
- Compare the market first so you recognise an abnormal price. Compare live rates.
- Check the counterparty — completion rate, order count, verification.
- Keep all chat and payment on-platform. Never move to another app.
- Pay and receive only in your own name. No third parties.
- Match the exact amount and reference requested.
- Never cancel after paying — open a dispute instead.
- Start small with a new counterparty or exchange.
Extra rules for sellers
- Confirm funds in your own account — never trust a receipt image.
- Wait until money cannot be reversed before releasing.
- Prefer hard-to-reverse payment methods. See the safest method.
- Stop if the sender’s name doesn’t match the trader — see triangulation.
For the why behind each rule, read is P2P safe and common P2P scams.
Frequently asked questions
What are the basic P2P safety rules?
Trade only on an exchange with escrow, compare the market first, check the counterparty, keep chat and payment on-platform, use your own name on both sides, never cancel after paying, and start small. Sellers should also confirm cleared funds before releasing.
What is the most important P2P safety rule for sellers?
Never release crypto until the payment has actually cleared in your own account and cannot be reversed. A receipt, SMS or screenshot is not proof of payment.
How do I avoid getting my bank account frozen from P2P?
Only accept payment from an account in the trader’s own name, avoid funds that could be stolen (triangulation), keep records on-platform, and use consistent, legitimate payment methods.
This article is general information, not financial advice. P2Pinfo.net is an independent P2P rate comparison tool and does not hold funds.