Cops Introduce New 'Meet Up' Spot so Meeting Strangers from Internet Isn't So Scary
Plenty of people love finding a good deal. As the saying goes, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure, and with the internet, we can pick over more treasures than ever.
There are few feelings as good as when you’re able to add something nice to your home without paying the full price. Garage sales and thrift stores are available for these sorts of purchases, but there are plenty of individuals looking to move some of their items online as well.
That’s how we got craigslist, Swip Swap, and OfferUp, to name a few. These sites put you in touch with locals who are selling their belongings at a steep discount.
But as with many things on the internet, the deals that go down aren’t always 100 percent honest. There are plenty of people looking to scam you, or worse, through these avenues.
There are plenty of ways to prevent this from happening to you, whether you’re on the buying or selling end. All it takes is a little common sense.
First, don’t pay for an item before you see it in person. While the photo may not be intentionally misleading, the object may seem smaller or larger than it actually is — or the lighting may change the color.
Second, never go anywhere by yourself or at night. Take a friend with you, and make sure you’re aware of your surroundings.
Third, meet up in public. Don’t put yourself in someone else’s territory.
Fourth, protect your identity. Craigslist will do this for you by hiding your email but still giving potential buyers a way to contact you. Make sure your photos aren’t revealing where you live, either.
Fifth, accepting cash is the safest way to go. If someone is offering to pay you with a cashier’s check without looking at the item in person, it’s a scam.
Fortunately, if you follow these rules of thumb, your exchanges should be safe and you should be able to bargain shop and sell to your heart’s content.
The Simpsonville Police Department in South Carolina has come up with a brilliant, helpful way to curb even more internet-buying mishaps.
They’ve created a safe location where people can meet up at to exchange goods. The spot has video surveillance to discourage any sort of shady dealing.
Even better, the location is at the police department itself, which ensures that buyers and sellers will be on their best behavior.
The police department posted their announcement with a warning: “We ask that you please don’t meet strangers at private residences, in areas that you are unfamiliar with, or after dark. We highly recommend these transactions be made during daylight hours if possible.”
And they’ve made that possible. Perhaps these official “Meetup Spots” will catch on in more cities!
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