To convert your ETH to Naira on Bybit, here are the detailed steps:
First, ensure your ETH is in your Bybit funding wallet. You’ll then use Bybit’s P2P Peer-to-Peer trading platform. Navigate to the P2P section, select “Sell” and choose “ETH” as the cryptocurrency and “NGN” as the fiat currency. Browse through the available buyer advertisements, paying close attention to their payment methods e.g., bank transfer to your local Nigerian bank, limits, and completion rates. Once you find a suitable buyer, initiate the sale, enter the amount of ETH you wish to sell, and wait for the buyer to transfer the Naira to your specified bank account. Always confirm receipt of the funds in your bank account before releasing the ETH on Bybit. Bybit acts as an escrow service, holding your ETH securely until you confirm the payment. For a more detailed guide, you can refer to Bybit’s official P2P trading tutorial on their support page: https://www.bybit.com/fiat/p2p/.
Navigating the Ethical Landscape of Cryptocurrency and Bybit
Understanding Bybit’s P2P Trading System
Bybit’s Peer-to-Peer P2P trading system is a direct marketplace where users can buy and sell cryptocurrencies with local fiat currencies.
This differs from traditional exchange trading, where you trade against an order book.
In P2P, you are dealing directly with another human being, facilitated by Bybit’s escrow service.
- Direct Transactions: You’re not selling to Bybit. you’re selling to another user.
- Escrow Protection: Bybit holds your crypto until you confirm receipt of fiat, offering a layer of security.
- Flexibility: A wide range of payment methods are often supported, including bank transfers, which are common for Naira transactions.
Setting Up Your Bybit Account for Naira Transactions
Before you can convert ETH to Naira, you need to ensure your Bybit account is properly set up and verified.
This involves several steps to comply with Know Your Customer KYC regulations, which are standard practice across regulated financial platforms.
- Account Registration: Sign up for a Bybit account using your email or mobile number.
- Identity Verification KYC: This is a critical step. You’ll need to provide identification documents such as a national ID card, passport, or driver’s license. Bybit typically has different levels of KYC verification, with higher levels allowing for larger transaction limits. For example, Level 1 KYC might require basic personal info and ID, while Level 2 could involve proof of address.
- Tip: Ensure your documents are clear and valid to avoid delays. Data from platforms like Chainalysis indicates that robust KYC processes have led to a significant reduction in illicit crypto transactions, with a 79% decline in transactions from illicit addresses to centralized exchanges between 2020 and 2021.
- Adding Payment Methods: For selling ETH to Naira, you’ll need to add your Nigerian bank account details to your Bybit profile. This is where the buyer will transfer the Naira.
- Crucial: Double-check your bank account number and bank name to prevent any errors.
The Conversion Process: From ETH to NGN via P2P
The core of converting your ETH to Naira on Bybit lies within its P2P platform.
This method allows for direct exchange between users, bypassing the complexities of spot trading for fiat conversion.
Step-by-Step Guide to Selling ETH on Bybit P2P
This process is designed to be straightforward, but attention to detail is key to a smooth transaction.
- Access Bybit P2P: Log in to your Bybit account and navigate to the “Buy Crypto” section, then select “P2P Trading.”
- Select “Sell” and Currencies: On the P2P page, click on the “Sell” tab. Then, select “ETH” as the crypto you want to sell and “NGN” Nigerian Naira as the fiat currency you want to receive.
- Browse Buyer Advertisements: A list of available buyers will appear. Each advertisement will show:
- Price: The NGN rate per ETH they are offering.
- Limits: The minimum and maximum amount of ETH they are willing to buy, and the corresponding Naira range.
- Payment Method: The bank transfer options they support.
- Completion Rate: A percentage indicating how often they complete trades successfully. Aim for buyers with high completion rates e.g., 95% or higher.
- Number of Orders: How many trades they have completed. Higher numbers often indicate an experienced trader.
- Data Insight: According to Statista, Nigeria consistently ranks among the top countries for cryptocurrency adoption, with a significant portion of users relying on P2P platforms for their transactions due to local financial regulations and preferences. In 2023, P2P volumes in Nigeria continued to show robust activity, underscoring the popularity of this method.
- Choose a Suitable Buyer: Evaluate the ads based on their price, limits, and reliability metrics. Prioritize safety and reliability over a marginally better rate.
- Initiate the Sale: Once you’ve selected a buyer, click “Sell ETH.” Enter the amount of ETH you want to sell or the amount of NGN you want to receive. The system will automatically calculate the equivalent value.
- Confirm Payment Method: Select the Nigerian bank account you’ve linked to your Bybit account where you wish to receive the Naira.
- Wait for Buyer’s Payment: After placing the order, the buyer will be prompted to transfer the Naira to your specified bank account. Bybit will hold your ETH in escrow during this period. You’ll typically see a timer indicating how long the buyer has to make the payment e.g., 15-30 minutes.
- Verify Receipt of Funds: This is the most crucial step. DO NOT release your ETH until you have unequivocally confirmed that the Naira has landed in your bank account. Check your mobile banking app or internet banking portal to verify the transaction. Relying solely on screenshots from the buyer can be risky.
- Release ETH: Once you have confirmed receipt of the Naira, return to the Bybit P2P order page and click “Release ETH.” This action signals to Bybit that the transaction is complete, and the ETH will be transferred from escrow to the buyer’s wallet.
- Complete the Order: The transaction is now complete. You have successfully converted your ETH to Naira.
Best Practices for Secure and Efficient P2P Trading
While P2P trading offers convenience, it also carries inherent risks.
Adhering to best practices can significantly enhance your security and efficiency. How to convert Cardano to eth
Avoiding Scams and Frauds
The P2P environment, despite Bybit’s escrow service, can be a target for fraudsters. Vigilance is your best defense.
- Always Verify Payment Independently: Never trust screenshots or “payment confirmed” notifications from the buyer. Log into your actual bank account to confirm the funds have arrived. This is the single most important rule. There have been cases where fraudsters send fake payment alerts or reverse transactions after you release crypto.
- Beware of “Instant” Releases: If a buyer pressures you to release crypto before confirming payment, it’s a major red flag.
- Communicate Only Through Bybit Chat: Keep all communication with the buyer within Bybit’s official chat system. This provides a record and allows Bybit support to intervene if disputes arise. Avoid moving to WhatsApp, Telegram, or other external platforms.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If a buyer is demanding, abusive, or seems to be attempting a scam, report them to Bybit support immediately.
- Transaction Limits: Be mindful of your transaction limits, especially if you are conducting larger trades. Bybit typically has daily and monthly limits based on your KYC level.
Optimizing Your P2P Sale
Smart strategies can help you get the best rates and complete transactions quickly.
- Check Market Rates: Before setting your price, check the prevailing ETH/NGN rates on other reputable exchanges or aggregators to ensure you’re offering a competitive price.
- Choose Reputable Buyers: As mentioned, prioritize buyers with high completion rates and a large number of successful trades. These individuals are less likely to cause issues.
- Be Responsive: Once you initiate a trade, be available to respond to the buyer’s messages and confirm payment promptly. Delays can lead to order cancellations.
- Patience is Key: Sometimes, it might take a few minutes for the buyer to make the transfer and for the funds to reflect in your account. Avoid rushing the process.
- Consider Timing: Like any market, P2P demand can fluctuate. You might find better rates or faster transactions during peak trading hours in Nigeria. For instance, according to data from Paxful a major P2P platform, weekends and evenings often see higher P2P trading volumes in some regions.
Financial Considerations and Ethical Outlook
When dealing with financial transactions, particularly those involving digital assets, it’s prudent to consider not only the practical steps but also the broader financial implications and ethical stance.
While converting ETH to Naira on Bybit can be a practical step, it’s essential to approach such activities with a mindset rooted in ethical responsibility and long-term financial stability, avoiding speculative endeavors that lead to uncertainty or excessive risk.
Understanding Transaction Fees and Spreads
While Bybit’s P2P platform itself generally doesn’t charge direct fees for matching buyers and sellers, there can be indirect costs or considerations.
- P2P Spreads: The price you get on P2P might be slightly different from the spot market price. This difference is known as the “spread,” and it’s essentially how the buyers and sellers determine their profit margins. It’s crucial to compare the P2P rate with the current market rate to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. For example, if ETH is trading at $3,000 on the spot market, and the P2P buyer offers a Naira equivalent of $2,950 per ETH, the $50 difference is the spread.
- Bank Transaction Fees: Your local Nigerian bank might charge a small fee for receiving an incoming bank transfer, especially for interbank transfers. While usually minimal, it’s something to be aware of.
- Withdrawal Fees if applicable: If you initially bought ETH on Bybit via another method e.g., spot trading and then transferred it to your funding wallet for P2P, you might have incurred trading fees on the spot market. However, for the P2P conversion itself, direct fees from Bybit are rare. A typical transaction fee for a cryptocurrency trade on a centralized exchange can range from 0.01% to 0.1% per trade, varying by platform and VIP level.
Tax Implications in Nigeria
As with any income-generating activity, converting cryptocurrency to fiat currency might have tax implications in Nigeria.
- Capital Gains Tax: If you acquired ETH at a lower price and sold it for a profit in Naira, this profit might be considered a capital gain. Nigeria’s Capital Gains Tax CGT rate is generally 10%.
- Income Tax: If your cryptocurrency activities are deemed a regular business or income-generating activity, the profits could be subject to personal income tax.
- Seek Professional Advice: Given the nascent nature of crypto regulation, it’s highly recommended to consult with a qualified tax professional or financial advisor in Nigeria. They can provide tailored advice based on your specific circumstances and the latest tax laws. Relying on anecdotal evidence or online forums for tax advice is not advisable. Recent reports indicate that financial regulators globally, including those in Africa, are increasingly focusing on crypto taxation, suggesting a future where clearer guidelines will emerge.
Alternative Methods and Financial Responsibility
However, it’s vital to prioritize methods that align with ethical financial principles, focusing on real-world utility and avoiding speculative investments that introduce excessive risk or uncertainty.
Other Avenues for Crypto to Fiat Conversion with caution
It’s important to approach these alternatives with a critical eye, always prioritizing ethical considerations and discouraging practices that involve excessive speculation or interest-based dealings.
- Centralized Exchanges CEXs with Fiat On/Off-Ramps: Some centralized exchanges offer direct fiat withdrawal options e.g., converting crypto to Naira directly into your bank account after selling your crypto on their spot market. This usually involves:
- Selling ETH for a stablecoin e.g., USDT on the spot market.
- Converting the stablecoin to Naira through the exchange’s fiat withdrawal service.
- Caution: This often involves traditional spot trading, which can be highly volatile and speculative, and might incur additional trading fees. Moreover, some exchanges might have stricter compliance requirements or higher fees for direct fiat withdrawals. Always ensure the exchange is regulated and adheres to strong security protocols.
- OTC Over-The-Counter Desks: For very large transactions, some institutions or individuals offer OTC services. These are private trades negotiated directly, often providing more personalized service and better rates for large volumes.
- Caution: OTC deals require significant trust and due diligence. Ensure you are dealing with reputable and verified OTC providers to avoid scams. The lack of an escrow service in unverified OTC deals makes them inherently riskier.
- Local Crypto Brokers: Some local brokers or individuals specialize in buying and selling cryptocurrencies for Naira.
- Caution: This method can be highly risky if the broker is not trustworthy. Always verify their reputation, check reviews, and consider using regulated services wherever possible. The principle of avoiding gharar excessive uncertainty would strongly discourage dealing with unverified or unknown entities in financial transactions.
Emphasizing Financial Prudence and Ethical Investing
Our engagement with financial instruments, especially emerging ones like cryptocurrencies, should always be guided by principles of prudence, long-term financial stability, and ethical conduct.
- Focus on Utility, Not Speculation: Instead of viewing cryptocurrencies purely as speculative assets for quick gains, consider their underlying technology and potential for real-world applications. For instance, blockchain’s ability to facilitate transparent and efficient record-keeping or cross-border remittances might align better with ethical finance than pure price speculation. The volatility inherent in cryptocurrencies like ETH can lead to significant losses, which is why excessive speculation is often discouraged.
- Avoid Excessive Risk Gharar: Islamic finance discourages gharar, which refers to excessive uncertainty or risk in contracts. Highly volatile assets or derivative products that involve significant leverage can fall into this category. When converting ETH to Naira, ensure the transaction is clear, transparent, and not subject to undue speculation.
- Diversification: Instead of putting all your financial eggs in one volatile basket, consider diversifying your assets into more stable and ethically permissible investments. This could include real estate, ethical businesses, or Sharia-compliant funds.
- Zakat on Crypto Assets: If your ETH holdings reach the nisab minimum threshold and are held for a full lunar year, they might be subject to Zakat, an obligatory charity. Calculating Zakat on volatile assets like crypto requires careful consideration, often based on their market value at the time Zakat becomes due. Consulting with a knowledgeable scholar or Islamic financial expert on Zakat for crypto is highly advisable.
Maintaining Security and Privacy Post-Conversion
Once your ETH has been successfully converted to Naira and the funds are in your bank account, the focus shifts to securing your financial information and maintaining privacy. How to convert Cardano address to private key
Securing Your Bank Account Information
The security of your traditional financial accounts is paramount, especially after engaging in online transactions.
- Strong Passwords: Ensure your online banking accounts have strong, unique passwords. Avoid using easily guessable information or reusing passwords across multiple platforms. A strong password combines uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols, and is at least 12-16 characters long.
- Two-Factor Authentication 2FA: Always enable 2FA for your bank accounts. This adds an extra layer of security, typically requiring a code from your phone in addition to your password.
- Monitor Bank Statements: Regularly review your bank statements for any unauthorized transactions. Report discrepancies immediately to your bank. Many banks offer SMS or email alerts for transactions, which can be very helpful.
- Beware of Phishing Attempts: Be vigilant against phishing emails or SMS messages that pretend to be from your bank or Bybit. Always verify the sender and never click on suspicious links or provide sensitive information. According to a report by the Anti-Phishing Working Group APWG, phishing attacks continue to rise, with a significant portion targeting financial credentials.
- Secure Your Devices: Ensure the devices you use for banking smartphones, computers are protected with up-to-date antivirus software and strong screen locks.
Protecting Your Bybit Account
Even after a successful conversion, your Bybit account holds valuable historical transaction data and potentially other assets.
- Keep 2FA Enabled: Maintain 2FA on your Bybit account. Even if you’ve withdrawn all your funds, this protects your account from unauthorized access.
- Log Out After Use: Always log out of your Bybit account, especially if you are using a shared or public computer.
- Review Account Activity: Periodically check your Bybit account’s login history and activity logs for any unusual access.
- Be Skeptical of Support Requests: Bybit support will never ask for your password or 2FA codes. Be suspicious of anyone claiming to be Bybit support asking for such information. Legitimate support will typically communicate through the platform’s official channels.
Regulatory Environment for Crypto in Nigeria
While the Central Bank of Nigeria CBN initially issued directives restricting banks from facilitating crypto transactions, recent developments suggest a nuanced approach.
The CBN’s Stance and Evolution
Nigeria has had a complex relationship with cryptocurrencies.
- Initial Restrictions 2021: In February 2021, the CBN issued a circular prohibiting Deposit Money Banks DMBs, Non-Bank Financial Institutions NBFIs, and other financial institutions from dealing in cryptocurrencies or facilitating payments for crypto exchanges. This led to many direct bank transfers to crypto exchanges being blocked, pushing users towards P2P trading. This move was largely driven by concerns about money laundering, terrorism financing, and the volatility of crypto assets.
- Recent Developments 2023-2024: In December 2023, the CBN issued new guidelines, signaling a shift. The guidelines now allow banks to open accounts for virtual asset service providers VASPs, effectively permitting financial institutions to facilitate crypto transactions, albeit under strict regulatory oversight. This move aims to bring the crypto market under a more regulated framework, enabling proper monitoring and potentially fostering innovation.
- Impact on P2P: While the new guidelines might eventually lead to more direct fiat on/off-ramps, P2P trading remains a dominant method due to its established user base and the comfort users have with direct bank transfers. However, with increased regulation, the P2P space might also see more scrutiny and compliance requirements.
- SEC Involvement: The Securities and Exchange Commission SEC in Nigeria has also been working on frameworks for digital assets, aiming to regulate aspects like token issuance and trading platforms. Their goal is to protect investors and ensure market integrity.
Navigating the Nigerian Regulatory Environment
- Stay Updated: Follow official announcements from the CBN and SEC regarding cryptocurrency regulations. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse.
- Use Regulated Platforms: Opt for platforms that demonstrate efforts to comply with local and international regulations, such as Bybit’s robust KYC processes.
- Understand Reporting Obligations: As regulations mature, there might be requirements for reporting crypto transactions, especially for large sums, to relevant authorities.
- Economic Impact: Despite regulatory hurdles, cryptocurrency adoption has surged in Nigeria. A 2022 Triple-A report indicated that over 22 million Nigerians owned cryptocurrencies, representing over 10% of the population. This high adoption rate is partly driven by inflation, currency depreciation, and the search for alternative financial instruments. The CBN’s recent shift indicates a recognition of the economic realities and the need to regulate rather than outright ban.
- Financial Inclusion: For many Nigerians, particularly the unbanked or underbanked, cryptocurrencies and P2P platforms have offered a gateway to financial services and cross-border remittances, highlighting their social and economic utility beyond mere speculation.
Future Outlook for Crypto in Nigeria and Ethical Finance
The future of cryptocurrency in Nigeria appears to be one of increasing regulation and integration, moving away from outright prohibition.
This evolution presents both opportunities and challenges, especially when viewed through an ethical lens.
Emerging Trends and Opportunities
- Increased Institutional Participation: As the regulatory clarity improves, we may see more Nigerian financial institutions and businesses engaging with cryptocurrencies, potentially leading to more direct and efficient ways to convert crypto to Naira.
- Blockchain Adoption: Beyond just trading, the underlying blockchain technology offers immense potential for various sectors in Nigeria, including supply chain management, land registries, and digital identities. Investing in and developing such utility-driven blockchain solutions aligns well with ethical principles of creating real value.
- Stablecoins and CBDCs: The eNaira, Nigeria’s Central Bank Digital Currency CBDC, is already live, aiming to offer a digital form of fiat currency. While different from decentralized cryptocurrencies, the eNaira’s existence shows the CBN’s openness to digital currency concepts. Furthermore, the increasing use of fiat-backed stablecoins could offer more predictable avenues for conversion without the extreme volatility associated with assets like ETH.
- Education and Awareness: As the crypto space matures, there’s a growing need for financial literacy and education to help users understand the risks, opportunities, and ethical implications of engaging with digital assets. This is crucial for fostering responsible participation.
Ethical Considerations in a Maturing Market
As the market evolves, it’s paramount to continually assess our financial activities through an ethical framework.
- Avoiding Riba Interest: The fundamental prohibition of riba remains central. Users should be wary of any financial products or services that involve interest-based lending or borrowing, even if disguised within crypto platforms.
- Transparency and Fair Dealings: Promote and engage in transactions that are transparent, fair, and free from deception or manipulation. This aligns with the Islamic emphasis on honest trade and justice in financial dealings.
- Social Impact: Consider the broader social impact of your financial activities. Do they contribute to real economic growth, create value, and benefit society, or do they primarily fuel speculative bubbles that can harm vulnerable individuals?
- Zakat Responsibility: The obligation of Zakat on eligible wealth, including potentially crypto assets, reinforces the idea of wealth redistribution and social responsibility. As wealth accumulates, fulfilling this obligation becomes crucial. It’s a reminder that wealth is a trust and comes with responsibilities towards the less fortunate.
- Long-Term Wealth Building: Emphasize building wealth through legitimate, productive means rather than short-term, high-risk speculation. Focus on investments that generate sustainable returns and contribute to the real economy. This includes investing in ethical businesses, productive assets, and community development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bybit P2P safe for converting ETH to Naira?
Yes, Bybit’s P2P platform uses an escrow system where your ETH is held securely by Bybit until you confirm receipt of the Naira from the buyer.
This adds a layer of security, making it generally safe if you follow all instructions, especially verifying payment in your bank account before releasing crypto.
How long does it take to convert ETH to Naira on Bybit P2P?
The entire process, from initiating the sale to receiving Naira and releasing ETH, typically takes between 15 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the buyer’s payment speed and your bank’s transfer processing times. How to convert Cardano to inr in stake in hindi
Most P2P orders on Bybit are completed within 30 minutes.
What are the fees for selling ETH to Naira on Bybit P2P?
Bybit does not charge fees for P2P transactions.
However, your local Nigerian bank might impose a small fee for receiving an interbank transfer, which is independent of Bybit.
Can I convert any amount of ETH to Naira on Bybit?
Bybit P2P usually has minimum and maximum transaction limits per order, which vary depending on the buyer’s advertisement and your Bybit KYC level.
You can choose a buyer whose limits match the amount of ETH you wish to sell.
What should I do if the buyer doesn’t pay me after I place the order?
If the buyer fails to make the payment within the allotted time, the order will automatically be canceled, and your ETH will be returned to your funding wallet.
If the buyer marks as paid but you haven’t received funds, you can initiate a dispute through Bybit’s support.
Is KYC Know Your Customer mandatory for Bybit P2P?
Yes, identity verification KYC is mandatory for using Bybit’s P2P services.
This is a standard regulatory requirement to ensure user security and prevent illicit activities.
Can I use any Nigerian bank account for P2P transactions?
Yes, you can use any valid Nigerian bank account linked to your name for P2P transactions. How to transfer Cardano to bybit
Ensure the name on your Bybit account matches the name on your bank account to avoid issues.
What happens if I accidentally release my ETH before receiving payment?
If you mistakenly release your ETH without receiving payment, it becomes very difficult to recover your funds. Always confirm payment in your bank account first.
In such cases, immediately contact Bybit support, but there’s no guarantee of recovery.
Why is P2P trading popular in Nigeria?
P2P trading is popular in Nigeria due to the Central Bank of Nigeria’s CBN previous restrictions on direct bank transfers to crypto exchanges, leading users to seek alternative avenues for converting crypto to fiat.
It also offers direct access to local currency and is often preferred by users who value direct interaction.
Are there any daily limits for converting ETH to Naira on Bybit P2P?
Yes, daily and monthly transaction limits apply on Bybit P2P, which are determined by your KYC verification level.
Higher KYC levels typically offer higher transaction limits.
How do I check the exchange rate before selling my ETH?
When you go to the “Sell ETH” section on Bybit P2P, you’ll see a list of buyers with their offered NGN rates per ETH.
Compare these rates to find the most favorable one.
Can I cancel a P2P order after it’s placed?
You can cancel an order if the buyer has not yet marked it as paid. How to transfer Cardano to different wallet
Once the buyer marks it as paid, you usually need to either wait for payment or initiate a dispute if the payment isn’t received.
Is it possible to use a third-party bank account for receiving Naira?
No, Bybit’s P2P rules explicitly state that the bank account used for receiving fiat must be in your name and match the name on your Bybit account. Using third-party accounts is strictly prohibited.
What is Bybit’s role in a P2P dispute?
In a P2P dispute, Bybit acts as a neutral third party, investigating the transaction and mediating between the buyer and seller.
They will review evidence provided by both parties e.g., payment proofs to resolve the issue.
How can I make my P2P transactions faster?
To speed up transactions, choose buyers with high completion rates and a large number of orders, as they are typically more efficient.
Also, ensure your bank account details are correct and be responsive in the Bybit chat.
Can I convert other cryptocurrencies to Naira on Bybit P2P?
Yes, Bybit P2P supports the conversion of several other cryptocurrencies to Naira, including USDT, BTC, USDC, and sometimes others, in addition to ETH. Check the “Sell” tab for available options.
What information do I need to provide for KYC?
For KYC, you typically need to provide a government-issued ID like a National ID card, passport, or driver’s license and sometimes proof of address like a utility bill or bank statement and a selfie.
Is it safe to share my bank account number on Bybit P2P?
Yes, it is standard practice to provide your bank account number to the buyer on Bybit P2P so they can transfer the Naira.
Bybit only shares this information with the specific buyer you are trading with, within the secure platform. How to convert Cardano to aud
What is the difference between Bybit P2P and spot trading?
P2P trading involves direct peer-to-peer transactions where you exchange crypto for fiat with another user.
Spot trading involves buying or selling crypto instantly on the exchange’s order book against other traders, usually for other cryptocurrencies or stablecoins, not directly for fiat.
How do I ensure I get the best Naira rate for my ETH?
To get the best rate, compare the prices offered by multiple buyers on the Bybit P2P platform.
Also, observe the market rate of ETH/NGN on other exchanges.
Sometimes, waiting for peak trading hours might yield slightly better rates due to higher demand.
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