Your safety is our top priority. Follow these guidelines for secure transactions.
Best practices for in-person meetups
Choose busy, well-lit locations like the library, student center, or campus coffee shops.
Consider bringing a friend along, especially for higher-value transactions.
Meet on your university campus where there's security and familiar surroundings.
Let a friend or roommate know where you're going and when you expect to return.
How to communicate safely with other users
Use our messaging system to maintain a record of your conversations.
Avoid sharing your home address, social security number, or financial details.
Maintain a friendly, professional tone in all communications.
If something feels off about a conversation or user, don't proceed with the transaction.
Secure payment practices
Always examine the book thoroughly before handing over payment.
Cash, Venmo, or other trusted peer-to-peer payment apps are recommended.
Never use wire transfers, money orders, or other irreversible payment methods.
Save payment confirmations and take photos of the transaction if possible.
Warning signs that should make you reconsider a transaction
Requests to meet in isolated or private locations
Pressure to complete the transaction quickly
Requests for unusual payment methods
Prices that seem too good to be true
Reluctance to provide additional photos or information
Poor grammar or suspicious communication patterns
If you encounter suspicious behavior or feel unsafe, report it immediately. Your reports help keep the BookYard community safe for everyone.
Use the flag icon on listings or contact our support team directly.