Content Policy

At Shekela, we are committed to providing a safe, trustworthy, and legitimate marketplace for buyers and sellers in Ethiopia. This content policy outlines what is and isn't allowed on our platform.

🚫 Prohibited Content

The following types of content are strictly prohibited on Shekela:

❌ Piracy & Illegal Streaming

  • IPTV subscriptions or boxes offering pirated content
  • Cracked or pirated software, games, or applications
  • "Free Netflix/Spotify/Premium account" offers
  • Mod APKs or hacked applications
  • Torrents or links to pirated content
  • Bypass tools or paywall circumvention services

❌ Counterfeit & Replica Goods

  • Replica designer goods (bags, watches, clothing)
  • "First copy" or "AAA quality" items
  • Counterfeit electronics or accessories
  • Clone phones or devices falsely labeled as originals
  • Items misrepresented as genuine branded products

❌ Gambling & Betting

  • Betting tips or match-fixing services
  • Gambling accounts or casino services
  • "Sure bet" or "100% win" predictions
  • Sports betting subscriptions

❌ Adult & Explicit Content

  • Adult/sexual services or content
  • Escort or dating services with sexual implications
  • Explicit imagery or pornography

❌ Dangerous & Illegal Items

  • Weapons, firearms, or ammunition
  • Drugs or controlled substances
  • Prescription medications without proper licensing
  • Explosives or dangerous materials

❌ Misleading & Deceptive Content

  • "Get rich quick" schemes
  • Pyramid schemes or MLM recruitment
  • False health claims or "miracle cures"
  • Misleading discounts or bait-and-switch tactics
  • False claims about product availability or features

🔗 External Links Policy

To protect our users from being redirected to misleading or potentially harmful websites:

  • External links in item descriptions may be removed or neutralized
  • URL shorteners (bit.ly, tinyurl, etc.) are not allowed
  • Links to file-sharing sites are prohibited
  • Telegram channel/group links may be filtered
  • All communication should happen through Shekela's secure messaging system

✅ What IS Allowed

Shekela welcomes legitimate marketplace listings including:

  • New and used consumer goods
  • Electronics, phones, and accessories
  • Clothing, fashion, and accessories
  • Home goods and furniture
  • Vehicles and vehicle parts
  • Business equipment and supplies
  • Services (legal and legitimate)
  • Real estate listings

🛡️ How We Enforce

We use a combination of automated and manual review to enforce these policies:

  • Automated Filtering: Content is automatically scanned before publishing
  • Image Analysis: Images are checked for inappropriate content
  • Manual Review: Flagged content is reviewed by our team
  • User Reports: Community members can report violations

⚠️ Consequences

Violations of this content policy may result in:

  • Removal of the offending listing
  • Warning notification to the account holder
  • Temporary suspension of posting privileges
  • Permanent account termination for repeated violations
  • Reporting to relevant authorities for illegal content

📢 Report a Violation

If you see content that violates our policies, please report it immediately. We take all reports seriously and investigate promptly.

Contact Us to Report

Last updated: January 2026. This policy may be updated periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements.