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Avito Tests Escrow Payments to Secure Service Market Transactions

Trust is the new currency in online services. Avito's escrow system could transform how freelancers and clients do business—without the risk.

The image shows a word cloud with the words "information security" in different languages,...
The image shows a word cloud with the words "information security" in different languages, emphasizing the importance of security in the business process. The words are arranged in a circular pattern, with the largest words in the center and the smaller words radiating outward. The colors of the words range from light blue to dark blue, creating a visually appealing contrast.

Avito Tests Escrow Payments to Secure Service Market Transactions

Avito Services is testing a new system for secure transactions in its service marketplace. The pilot project aims to boost trust between clients and providers by holding payments in escrow until work is completed. Experts believe this approach will help the service market grow through small-scale, reliable deals.

The move comes as more businesses shift online, turning local services into scalable ventures. With nearly half of clients worried about price hikes and contract breaches, the demand for safer transactions is clear.

The pilot focuses on three key categories: business services, repair and renovation, and transportation and delivery. Business services include design, promotion, accounting, and translations, while repair work covers plumbing, electrical jobs, and furniture fixes. Transportation and delivery round out the offering, giving providers a way to secure payments before completing tasks.

Under the new system, payments are held until clients confirm the service meets expectations. This escrow model reduces risks for both sides, ensuring providers get paid and clients avoid unexpected costs. The approach mirrors systems already common on international platforms but remains rare in the Russian market. Market trends suggest small, adaptable providers will benefit most. Around 30% of service professionals see guaranteed payments as the biggest advantage of secure deals. Meanwhile, 48% of clients rank protection against price changes and contract violations as their top concern. Avito experts predict microtransactions will drive growth in the service sector this year. The shift also aligns with a rise in career changes, particularly in fields where results are quickly visible. As more regional businesses move online, local services are becoming easier to scale, creating new opportunities for providers who can handle small projects efficiently.

The secure transaction pilot could reshape how services are bought and sold on Avito. By addressing concerns over payment security and contract reliability, the system may attract more clients and providers. If successful, the model could expand beyond the current three categories, setting a new standard for trust in online service deals.

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