# Safe Payments: Protecting Yourself When Money Changes Hands

## Golden Rule
Traceability > speed. Unexplainable payment = don't make it.

## Bank Transfer
Gold standard in Switzerland. Match contract names exactly.

## Cash
No auto-proof. Written receipt required. Exception, not default.

## Payment Apps
Only if both verified, limits sufficient, record provided.

## Escrow
Neutral account for high-value or long-distance deals.

## Contract First
Signed contract before any money moves.

## Red Flags
- Pay before seeing car
- Foreign account requests
- Pressure over explanation
- No written confirmation