Deposits, Refunds and Payment Safety for Clients

This guide is intended as general information for adults. Individual circumstances and applicable rules can differ. Take time to make informed decisions, protect your privacy and seek qualified independent advice where appropriate.

Understand the deposit before paying

Confirm the exact amount, what it reserves, who receives it and the circumstances in which it is refundable. Read the published terms and ask for clarification in writing if any part is unclear.

Verify the recipient

Use payment details supplied through a trusted official channel. If bank details change, independently contact the business using the number or email on its official website. Do not rely on a forwarded message alone.

Avoid suspicious payment methods

Be wary of cryptocurrency, gift cards, voucher codes, cash-transfer requests to unrelated names, overpayment schemes and demands for additional fees to release a refund. A screenshot is not proof that funds have cleared.

Keep evidence

Retain receipts, confirmations and relevant messages. If you suspect fraud, contact your bank promptly using its official app or independently verified contact details and report the incident to the appropriate authorities.