Police set up ‘exchange zone’ for safer online purchasing
People who buy things online – from Craigslist
or eBay, for example – and arrange to pick up their items in person from
strangers are taking a risk. Instead of a simple transaction, these sales
become an opportunity for criminals.
or eBay, for example – and arrange to pick up their items in person from
strangers are taking a risk. Instead of a simple transaction, these sales
become an opportunity for criminals.
“Police respond to
numerous reports of robberies, assaults, and thefts throughout the year, as
people who just want to buy an item for a little less become unsuspecting
victims,” states a notice from the Fairfax County Police Department.
numerous reports of robberies, assaults, and thefts throughout the year, as
people who just want to buy an item for a little less become unsuspecting
victims,” states a notice from the Fairfax County Police Department.
To minimize the risk, FCPD has
created an “exchange zone” pilot program to provide a safe place for buyers and
sellers to meet. The Sully Police District is rolling out the program June 27.
Two parking spaces directly in front
of the Sully Government Center in Chantilly are being designated for this
purpose, with posted signs and pavement markings. The parking lot is already
under 24/7 video monitoring, which should result in safer exchanges and reduce
the likelihood of fraud and other crimes. If the pilot is successful, perhaps
other police stations will set up exchange zones.
of the Sully Government Center in Chantilly are being designated for this
purpose, with posted signs and pavement markings. The parking lot is already
under 24/7 video monitoring, which should result in safer exchanges and reduce
the likelihood of fraud and other crimes. If the pilot is successful, perhaps
other police stations will set up exchange zones.
One response to “Police set up ‘exchange zone’ for safer online purchasing”
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That's a good start. Now we just need one in the Mason District.