Before you pay anyone
View the property
Be very cautious if someone wants money before you have seen the home or had a credible live viewing.
Look for Paw Keys Verified
The badge means Paw Keys has checked the lister’s identity/agency status and their authority to advertise the property. It is not a financial guarantee, but it is an important layer of friction against impersonation.
Keep the first conversation on Paw Keys
Do not feel pressured to move immediately to WhatsApp, Telegram or somebody’s private email address. PawMail Reply by Email is different: you can reply from your normal inbox and the text is still written back into the private Paw Keys conversation.
Question urgent payment requests
Gift cards, cryptocurrency, money-transfer services, unexplained bank details and “pay now or lose it” pressure are serious warning signs.
Keep sensitive documents out of chat
Do not send passport scans, bank statements, passwords or full payment-card details through ordinary messages. Paw Keys verification uses a separate private evidence flow for listers.
Never ignore a mismatch
If the property, lister name, payment recipient, address or tenancy information does not line up, stop and ask. A legitimate landlord or agent should be able to explain who they are and why they are entitled to let the property.
Use the report button
Report suspected scams, unauthorised listings, misleading pet policies, unexpected money requests, pet premiums, discrimination, harassment or inappropriate behaviour. Paw Keys can place a listing on hold while it is reviewed.
Share only what is needed
A wanted post should describe the home, area, budget, timing and pets — not your current exact address, banking details or unnecessary identity information. Initial contact stays inside Paw Keys so you can decide when it is appropriate to share more.