Trust & safety
A trade network only works if you can trust who you are dealing with. Here is how we keep BenchCircle safe.
Every business is checked
Before anyone can post or send offers, we check their business online:
- Business email confirmed
- Company number checked at Companies House, or VAT number checked
- Website, marketplace shop or trading page checked
- Workshop or stock photo showing a code we give them
Each member’s profile shows badges for the checks they passed. We do not use phone or video calls.
Private until you choose
Other members see your business name, type, area and rating, never your phone or email. Contact details are shared only with the trader whose offer you accept.
IMEI and serial numbers on a request are only shown to the accepted trader. Photos are deleted automatically once a deal is done or after 30 days.
Deal room and disputes
After you accept an offer, both sides confirm when goods, payment or repair work have been handed over. If something goes wrong, open a dispute and our team looks into it. Completed deals and ratings show on each member’s profile.
Safety alerts
Members report stolen stock, scams and fake parts. Our team checks every report and removes names before sharing an alert. IMEIs on new listings are automatically compared with published alerts, and we are told about any match.
Honest descriptions
Sellers grade devices on a Back Market-style scale and must say whether Activation Lock or Google FRP is on. Sellers can attach a device check report, which shows a green badge.
Report a trader
Every offer has a report link. We review reports and can suspend or remove members who break the rules.
Tips for safe trading
- Check IMEI or serial numbers before you buy, for example with CheckMEND. Checks are your own responsibility.
- Use a traceable payment method, and be wary of anyone who rushes you or asks to move away from BenchCircle quickly.
- For big orders, start with a smaller first batch.
- Keep messages about the deal on BenchCircle so there is a record if you need to open a dispute.
- If you think a crime has happened, report it to the police or Action Fraud (0300 123 2040), then tell us.
BenchCircle connects businesses but is not part of the deals between them. Members agree price, payment and delivery directly. See our Terms of use.
Trade with businesses you can trust.
Join, add your business details and complete a quick online check. No phone or video calls.