Your Safety is Your Responsibility
ShortRest is a FREE classifieds platform connecting people. We provide the marketplace, but you control your safety. This guide will help you make informed decisions and protect yourself when booking or listing properties.
Critical Reminder
ShortRest does NOT verify users, inspect properties, or guarantee transactions. Like any classifieds platform (OLX, Jiji, newspaper ads), you must verify everything yourself before making any commitment or payment.
Golden Rules of Safe Booking
Always View First
Never pay full amount without viewing the property in person or via verified video call
Verify Everything
Research the property, check owner identity, verify location exists
Use Traceable Payments
Bank transfers with descriptions, get receipts, avoid large cash payments
Get It In Writing
Save all messages, get written agreements, keep payment receipts
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels wrong or too good to be true, walk away
Report Suspicious Activity
Help protect others by reporting scams and fake listings immediately
Safety Tips for Travelers
Before Booking:
-
Research the Property:
- Google the property name and address
- Check for reviews on other platforms
- Look for the property on Google Maps Street View
- Search for the property owner's name online
-
Verify the Owner:
- Ask for government-issued ID
- Request property ownership documents
- Check if phone number matches online records
- Verify business registration if it's a company
-
Inspect the Listing:
- Request additional recent photos
- Ask for a live video tour via WhatsApp
- Check if photos match the address location
- Look for signs of stock/stolen photos (reverse image search)
-
Communicate Clearly:
- Ask detailed questions about amenities
- Clarify check-in/check-out procedures
- Confirm what's included in the price
- Get cancellation policy in writing
During Booking & Payment:
- NEVER pay full amount upfront - reasonable deposit only after verification
- Visit in person before paying whenever possible
- Bring someone when viewing properties
- Use bank transfers with property address in description
- Get receipts for all payments
- Document everything - save all messages and agreements
- Meet in public first if possible before viewing
After Arrival:
- Inspect the property matches listing description
- Take photos/videos of property condition upon check-in
- Test all amenities (water, electricity, WiFi, AC)
- Note any damages or issues immediately
- Keep owner's contact information handy
- Know emergency exits and safety features
🚩 Red Flags & Warning Signs
If you notice ANY of these signs, proceed with extreme caution or walk away:
Suspicious Behavior:
- Owner refuses video calls or in-person viewings
- Pressure to pay immediately or full amount upfront
- Owner won't provide ID or verification documents
- Avoids answering specific questions about property
- Changes terms after you've shown interest
- Won't put agreements in writing
- Insists on untraceable payment methods only
Listing Red Flags:
- Price significantly lower than similar properties
- Poor quality or obviously stock photos
- Photos don't match property location
- Vague or minimal property description
- Contact information seems fake or temporary
- No verifiable address or location details
- Listing duplicated across multiple names/numbers
Common Scams to Avoid:
- Fake Listings: Property doesn't exist or owner doesn't have rights to it
- Bait-and-Switch: Shown one property online, different one in person
- Advance Fee Fraud: Asked to pay "booking fee" or "inspection fee" upfront
- Identity Theft: Scammer impersonating legitimate property owner
- Double Booking: Same property listed by multiple "owners"
Safety Tips for Property Owners
Protect Yourself:
- Screen guests - Ask for ID, verify identity before check-in
- Get deposits - Collect security deposits for protection against damages
- Create agreements - Use written rental agreements outlining terms
- Inspect property - Check condition before and after each guest
- Maintain records - Keep copies of all guest communications and IDs
- Install security - Consider cameras (exterior only, with notice)
- Have house rules - Clear rules about noise, guests, smoking, etc.
- Emergency contacts - Keep local security/police numbers handy
Build Trust with Guests:
- Use real, high-quality photos of your actual property
- Provide accurate descriptions - honesty builds repeat business
- Respond promptly to inquiries
- Be transparent about rules, fees, and amenities
- Offer video tours for serious inquiries
- Provide verifiable contact information
- Be professional in all communications
Report Scams & Suspicious Activity
Help protect the ShortRest community by reporting fraudulent listings, scams, or suspicious behavior.
What to Report:
- Fake or fraudulent listings
- Scam attempts or requests for unusual payments
- Impersonation of legitimate property owners
- Stolen photos or misleading information
- Harassment or threatening behavior
- Illegal activities associated with listings
How to Report:
Email us at: support@shortrest.com.ng
Include: listing link, screenshots, detailed description, and any evidence (messages, receipts, etc.)
Emergency Resources
If you've been scammed or are in immediate danger:
Nigerian Police
Emergency: 112 or 911
Report fraud and criminal activity to your local police station
EFCC (Fraud)
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
Report financial fraud and online scams
Additional Resources:
Always report scams to local authorities first. Keep all evidence including messages, photos, and payment receipts. Document everything for potential legal action.
Stay Safe, Stay Smart
Remember: Your safety is in your hands. Always verify, always question, and never rush into payments. When in doubt, walk away. There will always be another property.
Start Browsing Safely