Deriv is a trusted online trading platform that empowers clients globally to trade forex, commodities, synthetic indices, and cryptocurrencies. Among its suite of innovative products is Deriv P2P—a peer-to-peer exchange that allows clients to buy and sell USD directly with one another using local payment methods.

As with any digital marketplace, transacting safely and securely on Deriv P2P is essential. Whether you're new to peer-to-peer (P2P) exchanges or simply want to sharpen your security skills, this guide covers the best practices to protect yourself and get the most out of your Deriv P2P experience.

Why security matters in P2P transactions

Peer-to-peer exchanging opens up flexible and localised options, but it relies on trust between users. At Deriv, your safety is a top priority. Recognising how risks such as scams, phishing, and fraudulent offers can appear is the first step toward becoming a savvy P2P trader.

Key points to remember:

• The exchange occurs directly between users—always within the Deriv P2P platform, not via social media or messaging apps.
• Deriv’s P2P platform uses an escrow system to safeguard transactions until all parties have fulfilled their side of the deal.
• User ratings and histories are visible, helping you choose reputable trading partners.
• Deriv will never contact you via WhatsApp or other social channels regarding your account or transactions
• Never share your login information or verification codes with anyone else

Verifying users and staying safe on Deriv P2P

Before accepting or listing any offer, take a moment to check the counterparty’s profile. Here’s what you should look for:

• Profile verification: Transact only with users who have a verified identity.
• Reputation scores: Prioritise traders with positive feedback, high completion rates, and a solid transaction history.
• Order limits: Avoid deals that seem unusually large or small for your needs, which can be red flags.
• Exchange Rates: Sometimes if an advertiser’s exchange rate seems too good to be true - it likely is because it is.

Top tips for secure P2P transactions:

• Never agree to complete or negotiate exchanges outside the Deriv platform. You risk losing both your money and Deriv’s reliable escrow protection.
• Communicate only via the in-platform chat feature.

Escrow protection: How Deriv safeguards your funds

Deriv P2P employs an automated escrow system—a safety net for both buyers and sellers. Here’s how it works:

• For buyers: The funds you have purchased are held safely by Deriv until the seller confirms receipt of funds, ensuring they remain available for you.
• For sellers: Your funds are locked in escrow and will only be released once you confirm that the buyer's payment has been received.

If either side encounters a problem, the dispute function allows Deriv’s support team to investigate and resolve the issue fairly.

The do’s and don'ts of Deriv P2P security

Mastering P2P safety is about good habits. Here’s what you should always do—and what you should avoid:

Do:

• Double-check all payment details before confirming anything.
• Keep all communications, deals, and fund transfers strictly within the Deriv platform.
• Use strong and unique passwords for your Deriv account, and enable two-factor authentication for extra protection.

Don’t:

• Share confidential information such as your bank login or full card number.
• Respond to requests asking you to “take the conversation off-platform” or “complete payment via WhatsApp/Telegram”.
• Hurry through deals—scammers often create urgency to pressure decisions.
• Click on suspicious links sent via WhatsApp or Telegram

Start using Deriv P2P today and follow our step-by-step guide for making transactions through Deriv P2P to ensure that every transaction is safe, smooth, and secure.