Frequently Asked Questions

What is Volibra?

Volibra is a peer-to-peer (P2P) trading platform that lets you buy and sell Cardano native assets directly with other users using non-custodial smart contracts. Your funds are never held by Volibra — every trade is secured on-chain through escrow.

How do I start trading on Volibra?

1. Connect your Cardano wallet (such as, Eternl, Lace, or Begin).
2. Browse available offers or create your own.
3. Choose a payment method and start a trade.
4. Complete the payment off-chain and confirm on the platform.

Do I need to complete KYC to trade?

Volibra is a non-custodial platform, so you connect your own Cardano wallet to trade. KYC requirements may vary depending on applicable regulations and trading volumes.

Which wallets are supported?

Volibra supports popular Cardano wallets including Nami, Eternl, Lace, Vespr, and other CIP-30 compliant wallets. Simply connect your preferred wallet to get started.

How does P2P trading work on Volibra?

1. A seller creates an offer listing their crypto for sale at a set price and accepted payment methods.
2. A buyer initiates a trade. The seller's crypto is locked in a non-custodial smart contract (escrow).
3. The buyer sends payment to the seller using the agreed payment method (e.g., mobile money, bank transfer).
4. The buyer marks the payment as sent. The seller confirms receipt and releases the crypto from escrow.

What does non-custodial mean?

Non-custodial means Volibra never holds or controls your funds. When you trade, your crypto is locked in an on-chain smart contract — not in a Volibra wallet. Only the smart contract logic can release funds, ensuring true peer-to-peer security.

How long does a trade take?

Most trades complete within minutes when using instant payment methods like mobile money or instant bank transfers. The actual time depends on how quickly both parties confirm their actions. Slower payment methods like standard bank transfers may take longer.

Can I cancel a trade after starting it?

You can cancel a trade before sending payment. However, if you have already sent payment, do not cancel — instead, mark the trade as paid and wait for the seller to confirm. If there is an issue, open a dispute.

How does the escrow smart contract protect me?

When a trade begins, the seller's crypto is locked in an on-chain Cardano smart contract. The buyer cannot access the crypto without the seller releasing it, and the seller cannot withdraw the crypto once a trade is active. This protects both parties until the trade is completed or resolved through a dispute.

What happens if the seller doesn't release the crypto?

If the seller does not release the crypto after you have sent payment, you can open a dispute. Our support team will review the evidence (payment proof, chat messages) and resolve the dispute fairly.

What happens if the buyer doesn't pay?

If the buyer fails to send payment within the trade window, the trade can be cancelled and the crypto is returned to the seller from escrow. Sellers should never release crypto before confirming payment has been received in their account.

Is my wallet safe when connected to Volibra?

Yes. Volibra uses standard CIP-30 wallet connection. We never have access to your private keys or seed phrase. Every transaction requires your explicit approval through your wallet.

What are Volibra's trading fees?

Buyers trade for free (0% fee). Sellers pay a 2% fee on completed trades. Standard Cardano network transaction fees also apply separately.

What payment methods are supported?

Volibra supports a variety of local payment methods including mobile money (M-Pesa, MTN Mobile Money, Airtel Money), bank transfers, and other methods popular across Africa. Available payment methods depend on the offers created by traders in your region.

Which cryptocurrencies can I trade?

You can trade ADA and Cardano native tokens on Volibra. The specific tokens available depend on the current supported assets on the platform. Visit the Fees page for the full list of supported cryptocurrencies.

How do I choose a trustworthy trading partner?

1. Check the trader's completion rate and number of past trades.
2. Read feedback and ratings from other users.
3. Prefer traders with a strong track record over newly created accounts.
4. Start with smaller amounts until you are comfortable.

What should I avoid when trading?

1. Never release crypto before confirming you received payment in your account.
2. Never agree to trade outside the platform — always use Volibra's escrow.
3. Avoid untraceable payment methods that cannot be verified.
4. Do not cancel a trade after you have already sent payment — open a dispute instead.
5. Never share your wallet seed phrase or private keys with anyone.

How do I avoid scams?

Always trade within the Volibra platform to benefit from escrow protection. Verify payment in your own bank or mobile money account before releasing crypto. Be cautious of traders who pressure you to act quickly or ask you to communicate outside the platform.

How do I open a dispute?

If a trade is not going as expected — for example, the buyer claims payment was sent but the seller has not received it, or the seller is not releasing crypto — either party can open a dispute from the trade page. Our support team will review the evidence and resolve the issue.

What evidence should I provide in a dispute?

Provide screenshots of payment confirmations, transaction receipts, bank or mobile money statements, and any relevant chat messages from the trade. The more evidence you provide, the faster the dispute can be resolved.

How long does dispute resolution take?

Most disputes are resolved within 24–48 hours. Complex cases requiring additional verification may take longer. You will be notified of the outcome through the platform.