In light of the latest novel coronavirus developments, Carousell would like to encourage our users to look out for one another, and consider those in need of essential items. We assure our users that we are taking steps to battle unfair profiteering on our platform. This includes, but is not limited to, surgical masks, N95 masks, hand sanitizers, and tissue paper.
At the same time, we have consolidated information and tips from credible sources such as gov.sg and The Straits Times that we hope may help you in this time of need.
Help others out when you can
In these times of need, we should look out for one another and especially those in need. Aside from not overpricing listings of essential items, we encourage users to also list excess essential items for free to help others out.
“I just feel that in times of need, we need to help one another. I pity those who need [masks] but can’t get or afford it, so I decided to buy from the resellers and give it out for free to those who need it, paying it forward. Hopefully, it makes a difference in people’s lives”. – Carouseller @kev.h
“We want to do our part to help the community in need and to inspire more people to lend a helping hand during a crucial time.” – Carouseller @carwerkz.com
Buy and sell responsibly
As per gov.sg’s advisory here, panic-buying items and stockpiling will only deprive others who really need these items. Please do not rush to stock up on essential supplies.
If you wish to transact on Carousell, we encourage you to have your items mailed or delivered to you instead of opting to meet up. Consider using Carousell Protection to safeguard yourself and your transactions.
In the case users prefer meeting up, the Carousell Protection team advises our users to:
- Avoid meeting up at crowded places and meet promptly to reduce risk of exposure;
- Avoid close contact and exchange of cash by using Carousell Protection for meet-ups;
- Maintain good personal hygiene before and after your meet-up by washing your hands or sanitising thoroughly.
Learn more about which masks are appropriate for which situations
As shared in The Straits Times’ article, masks are meant to be worn only by people who feel unwell. The purpose of wearing one is to prevent the passing of a virus from the wearer to other people. It does not serve as automatic protection against the novel coronavirus.
If you insist on wearing a mask, wear a surgical mask instead of a N95 mask. Surgical masks are meant to block large-particle droplets and splatter from reaching the wearer’s mouth and nose, and reduce exposure of the wearer’s saliva to others. N95 masks, on the other hand, help to filter airborne particles and, by design, would make it difficult for people to breathe in if they are worn properly. The Straits Times’ article here delves into the specific differences.
Remember that personal hygiene is the most important step in staying safe and healthy
Ultimately, paying attention to personal hygiene is our best bet at combating viruses. Frequent hand-washing with soap and not touching your face is encouraged. Read gov.sg’s advisory here.
Join us in battling overpriced listings of essential items on Carousell
As new listings and accounts pop up by the hour, users can also play their part by reporting overpriced listings with the reason <Mispriced listing>, as these flags have now been placed at top priority. Carousell is working closely with relevant regulatory and enforcement agencies to review listings if needed. Listings with unreasonable pricing will be asked to observe correction action or will be taken down.
