Trust & Safety

Producer Verification

Every seller and breeder on AMERICAN CATTLE UNION goes through a verification process. We require a USDA Farm ID, livestock brand registration, or other official documentation before a producer can list animals, message other members, or post in community groups. Verified producers display a green checkmark on their profile.

Privacy-First Messaging

Contact information — phone numbers, email addresses, and physical addresses — is never shown on profiles or in listings. All communication happens inside AMERICAN CATTLE UNION's secure messaging system until both parties have agreed to share contact details. This protects both buyers and sellers from unsolicited contact and potential fraud.

Formal Breeding Agreements

For genetics and breeding transactions, AMERICAN CATTLE UNION provides a formal agreement system. Both parties must agree to documented terms before any payment is processed. This creates a clear record of what was agreed, protecting both the bull owner and the cow owner.

Payments Through the Platform

All transactions are processed through Stripe, a PCI-compliant payment processor. AMERICAN CATTLE UNION never stores card numbers or banking credentials. We strongly advise against sending payment via wire transfer, check, Venmo, or cash to anyone you have not met in person and verified independently. If a deal feels rushed or a seller is pressuring you to pay outside the platform, that is a red flag.

Reporting & Moderation

Every profile, listing, and conversation has a report button. Reports are reviewed by our team, typically within 24–48 hours. Producers found to be misrepresenting animals, engaging in fraud, or harassing other members will have their accounts suspended or permanently banned. Verified status can be revoked at any time.

Trust Tiers

AMERICAN CATTLE UNION uses a tiered trust system to reward long-standing, well-reviewed members:

• Unverified Can browse listings and communities. Cannot message or list animals.
• Verified ✓ Full access — list animals, message producers, post in communities.
• Trusted ⭐ Earned after 5+ positive reviews and 6+ months on platform. Enhanced credibility with other members.