P2P (Peer-to-Peer) means “person to person”. It is a market where users buy and sell cryptocurrencies among themselves, and the Exchange functions as a security intermediary.
In P2P, the payment in fiat money is made between users (for example, bank transfer), but the Exchange protects the transaction by holding the cryptocurrencies until the payment is confirmed.
How does the Exchange protect you? (Escrow system)
The Exchange uses a system called escrow (custody/guarantee deposit):
• When you buy, the Exchange holds the seller’s cryptocurrencies.
• The buyer makes the fiat payment to the seller.
• When the seller confirms that they received the money, the Exchange releases the cryptocurrencies to the buyer.
This reduces the risk of fraud because the seller cannot “disappear” with the crypto once you start the purchase.
Who is who in a P2P operation?
• Buyer: pays in fiat and receives crypto.
• Seller: receives fiat and delivers crypto.
• Exchange: holds the crypto and manages security and disputes.
Common states of a P2P order
• Pending / Waiting: the order was created, waiting for buyer’s payment.
• Paid: the buyer marked “I have paid”.
• Completed: the crypto was released.
• Cancelled: it was not completed in time or was cancelled.
• Dispute: there was a problem and support intervenes.
Times: How long does it take?
Normally P2P can be fast, but it depends on:
• The time the buyer takes to pay
• The time the bank takes to reflect the transfer
• The seller’s speed in confirming.
Many platforms set a time limit (for example 15 minutes). If it expires, the order may be automatically cancelled.
Security: Golden rules (very important)
Always do everything inside the Exchange
• Do not accept payments or agreements via WhatsApp/Telegram.
Do not release crypto before confirming payment
• Verify the credit in your bank/app.
Always use the internal chat
• If there are doubts, keep everything recorded.
Respect the payment method of the offer
• Avoid sending from third-party accounts if the offer does not allow it.
Keep proof of payment
• Receipt / reference / time / amount.
When to open a dispute
Open a dispute if:
• You marked “paid” and the seller did not release, but your payment was successful.
• The seller or buyer asks you to do something outside the platform.
• There are inconsistencies in the amount or data.
In a dispute, support usually requests:
• Proof of payment
• Date/time
• Order ID
• Internal chat conversation.