How this Lower Mainland city is making online buying and selling safer

Buying and selling stuff online is increasingly popular these days, not only through Amazon and the like but also between private individuals. Meeting up with your potential customer and actually making the deal can be risky.

“There are numerous benefits to online private commerce, however there are risks,” a Coquitlam RCMP news release reads. “Many people have become victims of crimes such as robberies, frauds and thefts when attempting to buy or sell property online.”

To fight against those crimes, Coquitlam RCMP launched an Exchange Zone near the entrance to its main office this past weekend.

Even though it’s well-lit and there is 24/7 video surveillance of the site, police are recommending that any exchanges be conducted there only during their office hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

“The safety and security of the community is our top priority,” Cpl. Alexa Hodgins said in the news release. “This is an excellent way to promote safe and respectful transactions."

For those who can’t just drop down to Coquitlam for an exchange in the safe site, the RCMP suggests that transactions be done during daytime hours in a well-lit public location. They also suggests you have someone else with you.

They warn not to buy or sell through the mail, limit the amount of personal information provided along with the age old advice: “If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.”

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