Each month, there are more than 60 million users of Craigslist’s online classified ad site in the U.S. alone. Of these, a large number are posting and responding to ads for local goods, but there is always the question of safety when meeting with a stranger from the internet in order to make the exchange. In an attempt to create a safer way for residents to buy and sell goods from internet transactions, police departments across the country are now marking designated, well-lit areas that are generally under 24-hour video surveillance in their parking lots or building lobbies specifically for this purpose.

The goal is to help prevent crimes associated with people going to strangers’ homes, or meeting in secluded public areas, and also to help determine an individual’s intentions simply by suggesting meeting for exchange at a police station. There has been a growing incidence of Craigslist and other internet transactions turning into robberies, or generally violent in nature, where either party could be robbed of their money or belongings. In an effort to keep citizens safe, and decrease the number of police calls related to these types of incidents, many police departments saw the benefit of offering space in their public parking lots, along with the added security of using the already in-place video surveillance systems on the property and an active police presence to help ensure safe encounters.

It is recommended that you call your local police station prior to posting or responding to an internet classified ad to see whether or not they offer such a location. Of course, since not all items, such as furniture or large appliances, can be easily transported to safe exchange locations, you may find yourself still needing to be in the presence of a stranger in private. In those cases, certainly use extra caution, but no matter where you end up meeting someone, it is always best to follow standard safety guidelines such as:

  • Meet only during the daytime.
  • When possible, have someone accompany you.
  • Never allow someone over to your house or go to someone else’s house if you are alone.
  • Tell multiple friends or family members where you’re going and how long you anticipate being.
  • Make sure you have a well charged cell phone on hand.
  • Be especially careful when buying or selling high-value items.
  • Trust your instincts and leave if something feels off.

Craigslist and other internet classified sites provide a great service, now made even better and safer with the creation of police exchange locations. We hope that you will consider using an internet purchase exchange location near you, or requesting one from your local police department if it is not currently available.

 

Photo: Brunswick, ME Police Department Facebook Page