At Bark, we take trust, transparency, and professionalism seriously. Misusing our platform undermines our values and harms both customers and genuine professionals. Below is a clear outline of what constitutes misuse and the serious consequences for violations.
1. What is considered misuse of Bark?
Misuse includes (but is not limited to):
- Using sub-brands or alternate business names not listed on your Bark profile without written authorisation.
- Creating a new account after termination or indefinite suspension.
- Reselling Bark leads to third parties or external companies.
- Failing to identify yourself with your Bark profile details when contacting buyers.
- Providing false, misleading, or exaggerated information anywhere on your Bark profile.
- Conducting illegal activities via the platform.
- Providing professional services that you are not qualified or licensed to perform.
2. What kind of profile information is not allowed?
Your account may be permanently removed if we find any of the following:
- A false location (e.g., claiming to operate in a city where you have no presence).
- Submitting reviews yourself or encouraging employees to leave reviews.
- Falsely inflating your business size, such as claiming 100 employees when you only have 5.
- Misrepresenting your experience, such as claiming to be in business for longer than you have.
- Any content that, in Bark’s reasonable opinion, is designed to mislead customers.
3. What happens if I break these rules?
If we reasonably suspect a breach of our terms, we reserve the right under our terms and conditions to take action, which can include the following:
- Automatically charging you an additional fee of up to five (5) times the price of the leads you have responded to, and/or
- Receive a formal warning, and if repeated offences occur, removal from the platform, and/or
- Permanent deletion of your account.
4. Can I appeal a decision?
If your account has been removed for misuse, you will not be eligible to appeal. Bark retains full discretion in these cases.
5. How can I avoid misuse violations?
- Be honest and accurate in your profile.
- Only operate under the name listed on Bark.
- Never resell leads.
- Communicate clearly and professionally using your verified profile information.
- Keep all claims, reviews, and content authentic.
By using Bark, you agree to uphold our terms and ensure a safe, fair, and honest experience for all users. Any misuse will be taken seriously and addressed with strict enforcement.