Scam Protection & Anti-Lapka Policy
Welcome to our Jaisalmer Local Guide platform! We are dedicated to providing tourists with authentic, scam-free, and high-quality insights. To maintain the integrity of our platform, all contributors must complete our verification process and adhere to our strict editorial guidelines.
1. Contributor Verification & KYC Flow
We maintain two contributor tiers to ensure authenticity. All applicants must complete the following steps before submitting content.
Tier 1: Creators & Bloggers
Profile: Travel vloggers, bloggers, and influencers who have visited and created original content about Jaisalmer.
Verification: You must provide links to your active public channels (YouTube, Instagram, or established blog) featuring original Jaisalmer travel content. Our moderation team will cross-check your application email with your public channels.
Tier 2: Local Residents
Profile: Jaisalmer locals, business owners, or resident guides providing deep, insider knowledge.
Verification: You must securely upload a copy of your Aadhar Card for address verification to confirm Jaisalmer residency. Privacy Note: Aadhar data is processed securely and deleted from our active servers immediately post-verification.
2. Content & Editorial Guidelines
To protect tourists from common scams and ensure high-quality, reliable content, all submissions must adhere to the following rules:
A. Prohibited Content & Anti-Scam Policy
- No Unverified Desert Camps: Do not promote non-existent or "bait-and-switch" desert tents. All recommended accommodations must have verified, direct contact information.
- No "Lapka" (Commission Tout) Promotion: Content must not steer users toward specific commission-heavy shops or tour operators using deceptive tactics.
- No Misleading Safari Packages: Desert safari guides must transparently state what is included. Do not promote operators known for demanding unexpected extra money.
- No Hotel-Switching Tactics: Do not promote the narrative that pre-booked hotels are "closed"—a common tactic used to divert tourists.
B. Quality & Authenticity Standards
- Originality: All text and photos must be original. Plagiarism will result in immediate account suspension.
- Transparency: You must explicitly disclose any affiliations or sponsorships.
- Actionable Advice: Guides should focus on practical, safe advice for tourists.
3. The Moderation Pipeline
To maintain quality and safety, all content is held for review before going live.
- Automated Check: Submissions pass through an initial filter to check for plagiarism and broken links.
- Manual Editorial Review: A human moderator reviews the post against our Anti-Scam Policy, cross-checking the legitimacy of mentioned businesses.
- Publication: Approved posts usually go live within a few hours. If revisions are required, we will reach out directly.