Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about buying, selling, bidding, payments, safety, and account management on Soko.
3Getting Started
How do I create an account on Soko?
Visit our website or download our mobile app, click "Sign Up", enter your email and create a password. Verify your email address and complete your profile to start using Soko.
Is Soko free to use?
Yes, creating an account and browsing listings is completely free. We don't charge fees for buying or selling items on our platform.
Do I need to download the app?
No, you can use Soko through our website on any browser. However, our mobile app provides a better experience with push notifications and easier photo uploads.
5Buying
How do I place a bid?
Find an item you want, click on it to view details, enter your bid amount in the bidding section, and click "Place Bid". Your bid is a binding commitment to buy at that price.
What happens if I win an auction?
You'll receive an email notification and can contact the seller through our messaging system to arrange payment and pickup. The seller will contact you within 24 hours.
Can I retract a bid?
Bids are binding commitments. In exceptional circumstances, you can contact support within 1 hour of placing the bid to request retraction, but this is rarely approved.
What is a reserve price?
A reserve price is the minimum amount a seller will accept. The auction shows "Reserve not met" until someone bids at or above this hidden amount.
How do I contact a seller?
After winning an auction or to ask questions, click "Contact Seller" on the listing page to send a secure message through our platform.
4Selling
How do I create a listing?
Go to "Sell" in the main menu, click "Create Listing", add photos and description, set your starting price and auction duration, then publish your listing.
What photos should I include?
Include multiple clear photos from different angles, close-ups of important details, and any flaws or damage. Good photos increase your chances of selling.
How should I price my item?
Research similar sold items to understand market value. Start with a lower price to encourage bidding, and consider setting a reserve price for valuable items.
When should I end my auction?
Sunday evenings typically see the most bidding activity. Avoid ending during work hours or very late at night for maximum participation.
5Payments & Safety
Does Soko process payments?
No, Soko does not process payments. All transactions happen directly between buyers and sellers outside our platform. We recommend cash for local pickups.
Where should I meet for transactions?
Always meet in busy, well-lit public places like shopping centers or police station parking lots. Never meet at your home or isolated areas.
What if an item doesn't match the description?
Contact the seller first to resolve the issue. If they're unresponsive or unwilling to help, contact our support team to report the problem.
How do I avoid scams?
Meet in person, inspect items before paying, be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, and never send money to strangers online.
What payment methods are recommended?
Cash is safest for local transactions. For expensive items, consider meeting at a bank. Bank transfers and mobile money are also common but verify payment before handing over items.
5Account & Technical
How do I verify my account?
Verify your email address (required), add your phone number, and complete identity verification. Verified accounts get trust badges and may access premium features.
I forgot my password. How do I reset it?
Click "Forgot Password" on the login page, enter your email address, and follow the instructions in the reset email we send you.
Why am I not receiving notifications?
Check your email spam folder, verify your email address is correct, and ensure notifications are enabled in your account settings and device settings.
The app is not working properly. What should I do?
Try closing and reopening the app, check your internet connection, update to the latest version, or restart your device. Contact support if problems persist.
How do I delete my account?
Go to Settings > Account > Delete Account and follow the prompts. Complete any active transactions first. Account deletion is permanent after 30 days.
4Policies
What items are prohibited on Soko?
We prohibit illegal items, weapons, drugs, counterfeit goods, adult content, live animals, and hazardous materials. See our Terms of Use for the complete list.
How do I report a problem?
Use the "Report" button on any listing or user profile, or contact our support team directly with details about the issue.
What happens if I violate community guidelines?
Violations may result in listing removal, warnings, temporary suspension, or permanent account termination depending on the severity.
How does Soko protect my privacy?
We never share your personal information with other users. Only your display name and profile photo are visible. See our Privacy Policy for full details.
Still Need Help?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Our support team is ready to help you with any questions or issues.