Trust Levels Explained

The purpose of trust levels on the IBBF platform is to help users understand the level of information, documentation, and participation associated with a business profile.

Trust levels are intended to provide informational context and improve transparency for consumers and businesses interacting on the platform.

A Listed Business profile appears on the platform when basic information about a business has been recorded. This may occur when:

• A user submits a complaint or review about the business, or
• A basic business profile is created through available information

At this level:

• The business may not yet have claimed the profile
• The information may be limited to basic details
• The business may not have participated on the platform yet

Listed status simply indicates that the business has been referenced on the platform.

A Verified Business profile indicates that the business has completed the basic verification process, including ownership confirmation and document submission.

At this level:

• The business identity has been verified
• Ownership of the profile is confirmed
• The business may respond to complaints and reviews
• Basic information has been reviewed

Verification confirms submitted information. It does not guarantee service quality or performance.

A High Trust Business indicates that the business consistently maintains strong participation and transparency on the platform.

At this level:

• Responds to complaints in a timely manner
• Maintains good resolution practices
• Follows platform guidelines consistently
• Demonstrates active engagement with customers

High Trust status is earned over time based on behaviour, not just verification.

In some cases, complaints or reviews may include supporting documentation such as invoices, receipts, or transaction records. Where documentation is provided and reviewed, the content may be labeled as:

Documentation status provides context but does not determine the outcome of disputes.

Trust levels reflect how consistently a business participates and complies with platform standards. Participation includes:

• Responding to complaints in the defined timeframe
• Responding to reviews professionally
• Updating profile information accurately
• Completing verification processes
• Timely response to complaints
• Resolution confirmation by customers
• Remaining compliant with IBBF platform guidelines

Trust levels on IBBF are designed to provide informational transparency — not ratings, endorsements, or recommendations. IBBF does not endorse, certify, or guarantee any business based on trust level status.

Users are encouraged to review available information, documentation, and responses before making decisions.

IBBF operates as a neutral, non-government platform that documents consumer experiences and business information. Trust levels are intended to help users understand available records and participation on the platform.