In Pakistan, one of the most common challenges faced during peer-to-peer (P2P) transactions is the frequent freezing of bank accounts. This issue often arises due to misunderstandings between buyers and verified merchants regarding verification requirements.
Many Pakistani users become frustrated when merchants request additional verification, such as a copy of their CNIC, selfies, videos, or other supporting documents. The assumption is, "Why do I need to verify myself again when I’ve already completed my KYC with the platform?" Some buyers perceive this request as an accusation of dishonesty, which leads to unnecessary disputes.
If a scammer completes a fraudulent transaction and their bank account gets flagged, this triggers a ripple effect. Every account associated with payments linked to that scammer may also face scrutiny, leading to blocked accounts for innocent users. Merchants, therefore, take these precautions to ensure both their safety and yours.
A major issue contributing to these problems is impatience. Many buyers expect instant responses from merchants, and if they don’t receive a reply within 10 or 15 minutes, they immediately file a complaint or dispute. What buyers often overlook is that merchants may be handling multiple transactions at the same time.
Another contributing factor is the disregard for merchant-specific terms and conditions. Ignoring these guidelines often leads to heated arguments, which further complicate the transaction. Merchants set these terms to streamline their workflow and ensure smoother operations for all parties involved.
To reduce the risk of account freezes and improve the overall experience, patience and cooperation are essential. Always read the merchant’s terms and conditions carefully before initiating a transaction. Be prepared to comply with any additional verification requests, as this ensures transparency and safeguards all parties. Most importantly, allow merchants adequate time to respond, and avoid raising disputes prematurely.
