Buying phones and gadgets safely from Nigerian vendors

Check the IMEI before money moves

Ask for the IMEI and run it through the manufacturer's coverage checker. It tells you the true model, the activation date and whether the device is blacklisted. A vendor who will not share an IMEI is telling you something.

Understand the grade you are being sold

'UK used' covers everything from near-new to heavily refurbished.

• Ask for battery health on iPhones and cycle count on laptops.
• Request a video of the settings screen showing model, storage and serial.
• Confirm whether the device is carrier-locked.
• Get the return window in writing before you pay.

Meet or pay smart

For high-value devices, inspect on delivery and pay the balance on collection where the vendor allows it. Always attach a PingMart Protection Code so the order is traceable to a verified account.