If you like to buy and sell items on sites like Craigslist, the Jupiter Police Department wants to help keep you safe.
The department, located at 210 Military Trail, is now considered a safe exchange zone.
On Wednesday, the Jupiter Police Department posted on Facebook an invitation to people to use its parking lot to buy or sell items.
Jupiter police say too often they hear cases of someone being hurt or robbed during a Craigslist or other marketplace sale.
They say a legitimate buyer or seller will have no problem meeting in a police department parking lot.
Experts also suggest you keep your cellphone on hand during the sale and don't reveal personal information.
This building is operational 24 hours a day 7 days a week, so it’s a good option for you anytime, although daylight hours of course are best.
Many other local police departments have designated themselves safe exchange zones as well.
Tips to stay safe when conducting online transactions:
- Never meet anyone at your home whether buying or selling. Always meet in a public place such as a restaurant or shopping center or anywhere where there is a high volume of pedestrian or vehicle traffic.
- During business hours, a parking lot of a government institution such as a police department, fire department, or library is an excellent public meeting location
- Avoid meeting at night but if you must then choose a location that is well lit and has a high volume of pedestrian or vehicular traffic as the presence of other people provides an additional measure of safety
- Regardless of the location and time you are meeting a prospective buyer or seller always take a family member or friend to observe and witness the transaction
- Be aware that some criminals use financial or personal information such as credit cards or driver's license information to engage in identity theft and other financial crimes. Be careful when sharing such personal information.