Acceptable Use Policy

1. Introduction

This Acceptable Use Policy ("AUP") sets out the rules for using the FragSwop marketplace. By using our platform, you agree to comply with this policy.

This policy supplements our Terms of Service and should be read alongside it. Violations of this policy may result in account suspension or termination.

2. Permitted Use

FragSwop is designed for:

• Buying and selling live aquatic livestock (corals, fish, invertebrates, aquatic plants)
• Buying and selling aquarium equipment and supplies
• Communicating with buyers and sellers about transactions
• Participating in auctions
• Building a reputation through honest trading

3. Prohibited Content

You must not list or sell:

3.1 Illegal Species and Items

• Species prohibited under UK law
• CITES Appendix I species without valid permits
• Invasive non-native species listed on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act
• Wild-caught protected species without appropriate documentation
• Any species prohibited from sale in the UK

3.2 Non-Aquatic Items

• Terrestrial animals (reptiles, mammals, birds, etc.)
• Non-aquatic plants
• Items unrelated to aquarium keeping

3.3 Prohibited Materials

• Counterfeit or stolen goods
• Items that infringe intellectual property rights
• Hazardous materials or chemicals (except approved aquarium treatments)
• Any illegal substances

4. Animal Welfare Standards

In accordance with the Animal Welfare Act 2006, all sellers must:

5.1 Housing and Care

• Maintain animals in appropriate conditions prior to sale
• Provide accurate information about care requirements
• Not sell animals that are visibly sick or distressed
• Quarantine new arrivals before listing (recommended)

5.2 Shipping Requirements

• Use appropriate packaging for live animals
• Include thermal protection when temperatures are extreme
• Use expedited shipping methods (next day delivery recommended)
• Do not ship during weather holds
• Include breathing bags, heat/cold packs as appropriate
• Label packages clearly as containing live animals

5. Listing Accuracy

All listings must:

• Accurately describe the item being sold
• Include clear, recent photos of the actual item (not stock images)
• State the correct species identification
• Disclose any known health issues or defects
• Provide accurate sizing information
• State the origin (captive-bred, wild-caught, maricultured, etc.)
• Include realistic delivery timeframes
• Price items fairly and honestly

6. Prohibited Behaviour

Users must not engage in:

6.1 Fraudulent Activities

• Creating fake listings or transactions
• Misrepresenting items or their condition
• Using stolen payment methods
• Filing false DOA claims
• Shill bidding on auctions
• Account manipulation (multiple accounts, fake reviews)

6.2 Harassment and Abuse

• Threatening, abusing, or harassing other users
• Discriminatory language or behaviour
• Stalking or unwanted contact
• Sharing others' personal information without consent

6.3 Platform Abuse

• Spamming messages or listings
• Circumventing platform fees by trading off-platform
• Attempting to hack or exploit the platform
• Scraping data or using automated tools without permission
• Interfering with other users' transactions

6.4 Communication Violations

• Sharing contact details to avoid platform fees
• Sending unsolicited commercial messages
• Using inappropriate or offensive language
• Impersonating other users or staff

7. Review and Feedback Guidelines

Reviews and feedback must:

• Be based on genuine transactions
• Be honest and factual
• Focus on the transaction experience
• Not contain personal attacks or abusive language
• Not be used as leverage in disputes

8. Enforcement

Violations of this policy may result in:

• Warning: For minor or first-time violations
• Listing Removal: Immediate removal of violating listings
• Temporary Suspension: Account access restricted for a period
• Permanent Ban: Complete removal from the platform
• Legal Action: Reporting to authorities for serious violations

We reserve the right to take action at our discretion. Serious violations (fraud, illegal species, animal cruelty) may result in immediate permanent bans without warning.

9. Reporting Violations

If you encounter content or behaviour that violates this policy:

• Use the "Report" button on listings or messages
• Contact us at [email protected]
• Provide as much detail and evidence as possible

Reports are reviewed promptly and kept confidential.

10. Appeals

If your account has been suspended or banned, you may appeal the decision:

• Email [email protected] within 14 days of the action
• Include your account email and the reason for your appeal
• Provide any evidence supporting your case
• Appeals are reviewed within 7 business days

11. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Acceptable Use Policy from time to time. Material changes will be communicated via email or platform notification. Continued use of the platform after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

12. Contact Us

If you have questions about this policy, please contact us:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: fragswop.co.uk